CHILDREN over-using mobiles could be damaging their health through prolonged exposure to radiation from the handsets.

An official report, to be issued by the Health Protection Agency this week, is expected to reinforce concerns of possible health problems if children spend too much time on their mobiles.

The HPA's chairman, Sir William Stewart, gave similar advice five years ago, and has banned his grandchildren from owning mobiles.

He was asked by the Government to investigate the safety of mobile phones. His latest report will advise parents to limit the time their children spend on their handsets because no conclusive evidence exists to rule out radiation worries, which could lead to an increased risk of cancer.

Mobile Youth, a mobile phone consultancy agency, said 25 per cent of primary school children have access to a mobile. A survey by Sheffield Hallam University said 90 per cent of 11-16-year-olds own a phone.

In Worcester yesterday, some shoppers said the convenience of mobiles outweighed their health fears about radiation-related illnesses that could affect their children.

"When they have finished their investigation, I will make up my mind whether my baby will be allowed a mobile," said Joanna Ewens, aged 20, of Brewery Walk, Barbourne.

Elaine Perks, aged 46, from Newark Green, Warndon Villages, said two of her children, aged 14 and 16, already carried mobiles, and she was not overly concerned about the possible health risks.

"I like being able to contact them, and them being able to contact me. They speak to me on the phone, but usually text their friends," she said.

Grandchildren

David Waldron , a grandfather, aged 66, of Northwick Road, Bevere, said his two grandchildren aged 12 and 15, spend too much time on their mobile phones.

"The health concerns are a worry to me, and I think my grandchildren spend to much time on the phones.

"But their parents have decided that it's a good way to stay in contact, so they both have phones," he added.

Jose Pereira, from Dart Road, Ronkswood, Worcester, said most people carried mobiles, and when his baby son grew up, he would be allowed a mobile.

"We will probably give him a mobile when he wants one. I do have concerns about the radiation, but they are a good way of keeping in contact," said the 28-year-old hospital worker.

A Nokia mobile phone on T-Mobile. T-Mobile topped a customer satisfaction survey published last year.