More Than Hot Air

But far from being a complete flop, the new inflatable bandstand the first of its kind in the UK turned quite a few heads when it had its first airing last Wednesday afternoon.

Crowds gathered on Littlehampton Sports Field to see Winchester band The Tenterhooks put the new bandstand through its paces and everyone was clearly impressed.

It was bought from round-the-world balloonist Per Linstrom's company, Lindstrand, and is made from large, linked tubes which can be inflated in just five minutes.

Littlehampton mayor Mark Butler was delighted with the bandstand, which will be used for town events as well as being hired out to raise money for the council.

He said: "I started my civic year on the Sports Field and have ended it here. I am really proud to have been part of the town council acquiring this.

"By investing in this futuristic structure at a fraction of the cost of a static, traditional bandstand, we are able to provide other local organisations with a flexible stage from which to perform and present."

Find out more about the bandstand and planned events in the Gazette, May 16.