Attempts to brighten the outside of a Bradford police station have been dealt a blow.

Officers at Toller Lane Police have been forced to take down six giant 'sails' after they were damaged by gusting winds.

The colourful wall hangings were meant to flutter in the breeze, but a problem with some of the brackets caused one to rip just three weeks after a high profile launch.

Now contractors have gone back to the drawing board in a bid to come up with a weatherproof solution.

Acting Inspector Keith Boots, of Toller Lane Police, said: "The sails were attached to little bungee ropes, with the idea being they could blow in wind.

"Unfortunately, one of the bungees snapped and the sail was flapping about quite a bit which resulted in part of it tearing."

When forecasters sent out a severe weather warning for the region this week officers decided to take down the sails as a precaution.

Acting Insp Boots said: "We didn't want to risk any more damage. As it is the contractors are coming up with another bracket and the sails should be back up within the next few days."

Sergeant Roy Wensley added: "The cause for concern is while it was blustery the wind wasn't that severe, yet it still caused damage."

The colourful sails have been designed by children and community groups. The scheme has been sponsored by local businesses and each rig costs around £700.

Local ward Councillor Arshad Hussain said it was unfortunate that after less than a month the sails had not managed to withstand the elements.

He said: "Everyone I've spoken to thinks the sails are a brilliant idea.

"I think they're a good way of brightening up the police station because it has had a fortress-like image in the past."