THERE is very real and genuine concern about the number of telecommunications masts springing up across the country - and in Wharfedale and Aireborough we have had more than our fair share.

People are rightly concerned about the possible health risks to children - especially when they are put up close to schools and houses. No amount of reassurance from the telecommunications companies can satisfy those who are faced with the prospect of a mast just feet away from their homes.

And while the likes of Orange Communications and Mercury OnetoOne try to calm people's fears, some experts are busy saying there is evidence to suggest there could be health implications.

Yet another recent study revealed that although there was no threat to health it would be sensible to site all masts away from where there were children.

So with all the conflicting reports, it is no wonder campaigners against the masts say a stop should be put on any more until a full and unbiased study is made. Fair enough, but until then what's wrong with putting them out of the way of houses.

What also annoys and confuses people - and shows up the planning system as open to manipulation at the hands of well informed developers - is that as long as the masts are below a certain height and not in a conservation area they don't actually need planning permission.

How many residents have been frustrated by this? And how many ward councillors with the best possible intentions have had their hands tied by their own planning officers who are only going along with the law?

It is time a different set of planning regulations was brought in to tackle the problem of masts and also a full public inquiry into any health risks - after all, why should we risk the health of our children?