FAMILIES in Lostock are fearing for their health after discovering plans to build a mobile phone mast just yards from their homes.

Residents are worried about the potentially harmful microwaves from the 14.5m One to One mast.

They also claim it would ruin the scenery where they live, close to Deane Golf Club.

Residents of Armadale Road, Glenshee Drive, Errington Close and Westerdale Drive are now writing letters of protest to Bolton Council.

Michael Hallam, who lives on Glenshee Drive, said residents first became aware of the plan to put up the mast two weeks ago when a notice was pinned to a fence.

Letters have been sent out to residents outlining the plans and many are intending to send letters back to the local authority. He said: "Most people are not happy about this and have two concerns.

"First, they are concerned about the height of the mast.

"It is higher than any other structure and is not in keeping with the area. "In 1971, when these houses were built, no telephone poles were put up so they would not spoil the area.

"This mast would stick out like a sore thumb.

"Secondly, there are the health issues, which are a part of a national debate at the moment. Nobody knows how harmful they could be."

Mr Hallam said many homes are close to were the mast would be built and one house in particular is just 100 yards away.

A spokesman for Bolton Council said its powers over mobile phone masts are limited and it does not have the right to object or refuse an actual application.

He said: "The company has to consult with the council about the details of what will be built and we could object to particular details.

"These details will be taken to the committee at the end of this month."