KIDDERMINSTER residents are "over the moon" after the Territorial Army rejected plans to install a mobile phone mast at its town site.

The announcement was made by Col Tim Weeks, chief executive of the West Midlands Reserve Forces Cadets Association - RFCA - after residents expressed concern about the proposal put forward by mobile phone company, Vodafone.

Richard Peden and neighbour, Ron Carter, of Linden Grove, launched a petition and letters were sent to the TA opposing the plans. They feared it would create an eyesore near their homes and devalue their properties.

Mr Peden painted his protest in two-foot high lettering on his wall, which overlooks the TA's headquarters, off Birmingham Road.

He said: It's absolutely great - brilliant news. The residents have been very concerned about this proposal, not only because it will create an eyesore but because more research has to go into the potential health risks involved.

"Credit must go to the TA as they were our last hope and we are pleased their offer of a site has been withdrawn."

Capt Mark Butler, of the TA, said the matter was in the process of being resolved and he hoped the decision would satisfy the residents' concerns.

Vodafone spokeswoman, Jane Frapwell, said the company was always disappointed when any site provider withdrew their offer. She added: "However, as yet, we have not been notified of any formal withdrawal at this particular site."