Thousands of fans were left disappointed as Kings of Leon stormed offstage after being hit by pigeon poo at a US concert.

The Grammy-winning band fled mid-set after being targeted by the birds which were in the rafters of a venue in St Louis.

Shortly after their departure, a PA announcement confirmed the concert's cancellation "due to concerns over the band's safety."

Droppings landed close to bassist Jared Followill's mouth, according to band manager Andy Mendelsohn. "It's not only disgusting - it's a toxic health hazard," he said.

Support bands the Postelles and the Stills, who also played, were covered in droppings. "We couldn't believe what [they] looked like after their sets," said Jared.

The gig's promoters are providing full refunds. The band have apologized to fans and played an excrement-free gig in Cleveland, Ohio on Monday.

Photo: � Getty Images