They have been criticised for being too expensive and unwanted, but now St Helier's controversial £23,000 totem poles are under attack for being politically incorrect.

Speaking at a recent council meeting Sutton's Mayoress Myfanwy Wallace said the wooden sculpture's nickname could offend Native Americans and called for people to stop using the term.

"I put it to you all," she said, "That I wonder if the indigenous people who designed totem poles would actually wish you to call it a totem pole.

"These wooden sculptures are intended to enhance our open spaces and local environment, funded through an environmental charity.

"They are made of traditional English oak and do not, nor are intended to, resemble totem poles."

But Jess Hundley whose family descend from the Sioux tribe of Indians, originally from Dakota, doubted much offence had been caused.

"Clearly these structures are not totem poles in the traditional understanding, but I doubt many would be offended by people using the term," she added.

"Maybe our former Chief Sitting Bull would have had a stronger opinion, but I am certainly not offended."

Totem poles were originally created by natives of the Pacific Northwest who used giant trees to make them. Their design was often used to recount familiar legends, clan lineages or notable events.

But described by Councillor Paul Scully in his blog as simply leaves on a stick', it seems the St Helier sculptures fall short of recounting any great yarn.

In a bid to find an appropriate name Sutton's Conservative group has launched a competition for residents' to rename the sculptures.

"Although this is clearly politically correctness gone mad," Coun Scully added. "We're inviting Sutton residents to give the totem poles' an alternative name.

"The best entry will win a bottle of House of Commons whisky signed by David Cameron."

Suggested names can be sent to hdarlington@london.newsquest.co.uk.