A Yeadon bandstand has been dubbed a laughing stock in the brass band world.

The eight-sided bandstand in Yeadon Tarn has been described, by musician Ron Downs, as being 'as useful as a chocolate teapot'.

The problem with the bandstand is that it is too small to fit an average sized brass band into it.

Since opening in June 2001, bands performing there have ranged from the Sowerby Friendly Band, Yeadon Old, Lindley Brass and Wakefield Metropolitan Brass Band.

Unfortunately only the eight members of the Lindley Brass band were able to squeeze into the shelter.

The traditional Victorian style bandstand would have been an ideal venue for bands a 100 years ago, but modern brass bands are much larger and cannot fit all their equipment into them.

The Wakefield Metropolitan Brass band experienced problems when they played at the Tarn in the summer.

When it started raining the 30-strong band were unable to fit themselves and their equipment into the bandstand.

Comments from the Wakefield band ranged from 'It's been a laughing stock in the banding world since it was built a year ago' and that 'the black and gold folly is a sheer waste of money'.

A spokesman for the band said: "It was very difficult for the band to get into.

"These small bandstands are not uncommon, but we cannot fit into them.

"The only one in the area that is the correct size is in Lister Park, in Bradford. You have to fit the players, their instrument and all the percussion instruments into the shelters and the Yeadon one is just too small.

"The shelters are made to look like Victorian shelters, but in those days the bands were a lot smaller than today.

"Our band has 30 members plus instruments and lots of brass bands are much bigger than ours."

Even the world renowned British Bandsman publication has received letters of complaint from musicians regarding the size of the Yeadon stand.

The 12ft by 14ft structure was built to accommodate ten musicians with their instruments.

A former member of Yeadon Old band, Ron Downs has suggested that the shelter be transformed into a refreshment kiosk and a new bigger bandstand built 100 yards away.

"The current number of brass band members needed for a concert is 35, but local bands playing in the lowers sections will have at least 24 members," said the musician.

"The Yeadon stand has no room for the trombonist, let alone the conductor. It is a disgrace.

"As this shelter is already the laughing stock of the brass band world it should be taken down or be converted into a permanent refreshment kiosk.

"It should be relocated 100 yards further up the field towards the mature copse of conifers. Lets get some pride back on to Yeadon Tarn.

"The new bandstand does not have to be ornate, just solid, substantial and the appropriate size."

A spokesperson for Leeds City Council's Leisure Services Department said: "A new purpose-built shelter replaced the old ones which were demolished.

"The shelter, though not a traditional bandstand, is open to all types of performances and is used by the local community groups including musical bands. In the case of a brass band the maximum number that will fit in is ten performers."