Council chiefs are, for the first time, bringing in someone from the outside to run the historic bandstand on the banks of the River Dee.

Traditionally Chester West and Cheshire Council has run the iconic, Edwardian Grade II Listed structure which is used at weekends over the summer months. 

But now council bosses say they want to recruit someone from outside the authority to bring a fresh approach to how the bandstand is run.

Built on The Groves in 1913 at a cost of £350, the venue has served countless amateur musicians over the past 101 years and is a well-loved landmark.

The closing date for the £1,300 temporary post was February 28 -  40 expressions of interest were received resulting in ten applications submitted.

According to the council the applications are currently being scrutinised with a shortlist expected to be drawn up soon.

With summer concerts annually attracting thousands of visitors to the city, the council needs someone in place and ready to go in time for the busy season that kicks off in May.

A spokesman for the council said: “This is the first time we have looked at taking on someone from outside the council and we’ve been really impressed with both the number of people interested in the role and the very high standard of those individuals.

“We’re pleased to be able to give someone this opportunity to work coordinating the running of the bandstand and believe someone from the community might be able to do things differently and bring a new perspective.

“The summer season of events begins in May so we’re hoping to have someone in place well before then.”

Whoever gets the job will book, manage and co-ordinate the bandstand diary.

A key part of the job will entail keeping in touch with the council’s arts and festivals team to ensure opportunities to perform are circulated to a wide network with priority awarded to local performers.

Other duties include making sure the programme of events meets the requirements of the premise license as well as seeking ways to develop how the bandstand can be used.