TWO communities have joined forces in an attempt to stop a mobile phone firm erecting a 20 metre high mast near their homes.

More than 300 residents of Croxdale and Tudhoe have signed a petition against a proposed telecommunications mast to be sited between the two villages.

Sedgefield Borough Council has received a planning application from Hutchison 3G to erect a lattice tower, antennas and cabin in Chair Lane - a quiet country road.

But residents have launched a campaign with a petition in Tudhoe post office and The Daleside Arms, Croxdale, and letters urging the council to refuse permission.

Families are concerned about the potential safety risks associated with mobile phone masts, particularly when located close to electricity pylons as this would be.

Tracy Serajian, of Tudhoe, said: "We want people to know about the plans so they have the chance to object by the end of week. We're worried about health risks to residents, pupils of two primary schools nearby, bat colonies and pigeons in lofts nearby."

She is urging people in Croxdale who are against the proposal to write to Sedgefield Borough Council, which is the planning authority.

Sandra Patterson, of The Daleside Arms, Croxdale, added: "If there is the slightest risk to people's health these masts should be as far away as possible from houses and schools.

"Lots of people have gone out of their way to join our protest which shows the strength of feeling here."

John Kelly, a member of Croxdale and Hett Parish Council, which has objected to the plan, said: "I'm concerned because the site is just 200m from people's homes and on a very popular country track, which is well used by walkers and cyclists who don't want their view spoiled by this mast."

Ben Strutt, spokesman for Hutchison 3G, said: "As demand for the latest video and camera mobile phones increases we need to erect more masts in the North- East.

"It takes months of research and careful consideration to chose a potential site. We do take the findings of safety reports very seriously when looking at locations."