A full programme of music has been pencilled in for the new bandstand built as part of £4.5 million restoration of Roberts Park in Saltaire.

The bandstand, which has a dome to match that of the United Reformed Church in Saltaire village, is set to feature a range of musical talent when it is opened during the park’s unveiling this month.

Music in Roberts Park was resurrected four years ago as part of the campaign for the restoration of the park. But until now, musicians have had to play on the tarmac, following the removal of the original bandstand decades ago.

Saltaire songwriter Eddie Lawler, of the Saltaire Village Society, has organised the programme of events, starting on Saturday, May 22 with the Hammonds Saltaire Band, which will guarantee live music in the park every Sunday in the summer.

Mr Lawler said: “It has meant a lot of commitment from a lot of local people, particularly the local cricket club and the Friends of Roberts Park.

“But asking musicians to play was like knocking at an open door – this year people have filled in the programme very quickly.

“So we have got some people who have played in the past and we have got some new bands, especially the younger bands. It means that a good old tradition is revived and that the park is used by the people of Saltaire and way beyond, because that is what we want this restored park to do. People had got out of the habit of using it.”

The final afternoon will also coincide with the Saltaire Festival, on Sunday, September 12.

Mr Lawler said Bradford Council had also agreed to help pay some of the musicians performing at the bandstand. The project has been funded mainly by a £3.2 million Heritage Lottery grant. Most concerts will start at 2.30pm and the Half Moon cafe will be open.