FEARS that a phone mast may be erected in Upper Welland brought more than 80 people to a meeting on Monday night.

Vodafone has applied for permission to erect the mast at Mayall Farm, Watery Lane, and many villagers are concerned about the effect it will have on the health of those living near it. Fears have been raised that the 'third generation' technology it will use is not safe.

Resident Karen Butterfield said: "I have got a five-year-old child and moved to the community specifically to get away from this. I don't have a mobile and don't intend to have one, as I don't want my son anywhere near one. That's why I'm really cheesed off about the mast. I don't want to have to know whether it's safe or not."

The meeting, at Upper Welland Methodist Chapel, was called by Caroline Bennett, who has also organised a petition against the mast, now signed by 150 people.

Mrs Bennett said: "Unless Vodafone can prove it's safe and say 'hey, there's no worry whatsoever, it's no risk to anybody', I don't see why we should take the chance."

The site for the mast falls between the Malvern Wells and Little Malvern and Welland wards and has been recommended for approval by the former parish council.

Brian Wilcock, chairman of Malvern Wells Parish Council said: "We did ask it to be camouflaged, but we do not believe we could object to it on its appearance and position.

"Vodafone were looking for somewhere where it was not very visible or near any habitation and that, in my opinion, is what they have found."

Further action against the mast will be discussed at another public meeting at 7.30pm on Monday (December 15) at Welland Village Hall.