CONCERT arrangements at Darlington's Dolphin Centre were hastily reorganised when the organisers realised there was not enough space for the orchestra.

Most of the stage had to be removed at the last minute to accommodate the Northern Sinfonia on Sunday.

Organisers spent the afternoon frantically altering the layout for the orchestra and seating for the audience, and there was not time left for the orchestra of about 30 musicians to rehearse before the concert.

Insurance requirements meant the piano could not be lifted down and placed at floor level with the rest of the orchestra, as planned.

The piano remained on a platform which was not large enough for the orchestra. This meant some of the players could not see the conductor Howard Shelley, who was also the pianist.

Janet Hall, who was in the audience, said: "This episode reflects badly on the professionalism of the Dolphin Centre as a venue for events of this type.

"Some of the players could turn and see Mr Shelley, but for others it was impossible. Nevertheless, the orchestra's standard of performance was superb.

"Let us hope that lessons have been learned by the management there and incorporated into the training of its staff who actually do the jobs at the sharp end."

A council spokeswoman said: "Clearly there were some issues around the setting up of the concert. We acknowledge that we will need to work more closely with Northern Sinfonia to ensure that the performance space is appropriate for the next concert.

"We have a strong relationship with Northern Sinfonia and we are committed to sustaining that relationship so that the people of Darlington can enjoy the best classical music in the region."

The concert included a piano concerto by Mendelssohn and a symphony by Beethoven, a Rossini overture and Wagner's Siegfried Idyll.