Protesters highlight mast danger

The mast is for mobile phones using the latest technology.

Protesters against a mobile phone mast in Sheffield have built an outdoor sitting room on the site to highlight the potential danger to families.

Campaigners have so far managed to prevent contractors from erecting the mast in Ecclesall Road.

Now they have gone a step further by recreating an outdoor living room to show its close proximity to homes.

Spokeswoman Ankie Hoogvelt said: "There is everything there from settees to a television and a vase of flowers."

New technology

Cups of coffee and tea have also been added for extra authenticity.

The proposed mast, owned by Hutchinson, is a Third Generation installation which allows mobile phone users to download pictures.

But Miss Hoogvelt said it was approved under normal phone mast regulations which should not apply to new technology.

"Nobody has really consulted the local residents, and citizens need to be more aware of their own environment," she said.

Meanwhile the group are forming a petition to present to the city council on 1 September.