A T Kuhn (letter in The Comet March 16) states that despite repeated studies, there is no evidence, from any country in the world that radiation from cell phone masts is in any way harmful. This is simply not the case as studies have produced varying resu

A T Kuhn (letter in The Comet March 16) states that despite repeated studies, there is no evidence, from any country in the world that radiation from cell phone masts is in any way harmful.

This is simply not the case as studies have produced varying results and indeed Barbara Follett MP has specifically agreed with me that research about the health risks of mobile phone base stations, especially for 3G services, justifies the objection to a mobile phone mast at Holy Trinity Church. It is therefore not surprising that Stevenage Borough Council prefers to see masts situated in areas of employment, away from residential areas, wherever possible.

Yet with the demolition of B&Q and Cromwell House in the near future, the area adjacent to the church will become a prime residential area - just the sort of location that the council wishes to avoid!

Moreover, local residents are overwhelmingly concerned too, 121 having now signed my petition of opposition. Of those in the immediate vicinity of the mast who had received the formal planning proposal through their letterbox, almost 80% were opposed to the scheme. Many in a slightly wider radius also voiced strong opposition to the mast.

Regarding the £5,000 per annum rental, the Reverend Tickner has publicly stated that the money is not the issue as far as we are concerned. The objective is said to be that of serving the community.

Given that the local community has demonstrated overwhelming opposition to the scheme, why is the Reverend Tickner still intent on going ahead with the mast? Why does he not listen to the local community who clearly do not want it?

PETER CRAIG

* Regarding the installation of a telephone mast in the belfry of Holy Trinity Church, could the proposal be discussed at the next Old Town Area Committee with all relevant information regarding Health and Safety issues.

If we can be assured there are no harmful emissions to the community, especially to our children, then I see no reason why the installation should not go ahead.

CONNIE REES, Sish Lane, Stevenage