CRITICS of a new futuristic bus shelter in Tadcaster were today denounced as "moaners and whingers".

The state-of-the-art shelter, part of a £200,000 revamp of the Britannia car park, was described by Tadcaster councillor Jean Ashton as "about as much use as a chocolate fireguard".

She said that when it was raining and the wind was in the wrong direction, passengers sitting inside the shelter were getting soaked.

She condemned the "see -through" shelter, which has a 10ft high roof, but no sides, as a waste of council taxpayers' money.

But Coun Chris Metcalfe, who is also a member of Selby District and North Yorkshire County Councils, today defended the "avant garde" design.

He said he had received many positive comments from residents.

He said: "I'm really proud and happy to see the new bus station completed to such a high standard and on time.

"Why is it that any positive progress in Tadcaster results in the usual whingers moaning about a waste of money or another Tadcaster folly?

"Don't the people of Tadcaster deserve improvements to their town? In the past, the money has been spent elsewhere.

"The people of Tadcaster need optimistic community leaders, not moaners and groaners."

He denied that waiting passengers were getting soaked, saying it was impossible for the rain to reach the seats.

Coun Ashton retorted: "I stand by everything I said. I was at the bus station the other day and people were standing inside with their umbrellas up.

"Since the article appeared in the Evening Press, people have been stopping me in the street and saying 'well done Jean'."

Tadcaster councillor Don Bain-Mackay, who said the shelter architect should be made to go back to the drawing board, said he still believed the county council should have another look at the design.

The county council has already pledged to have another look at the shelter, in view of the criticism.

Updated: 09:33 Saturday, May 24, 2003