A LONG-RUNNING Winchester phone mast battle is to continue after campaigners were given leave to appeal a High Court decision.

Fulflood residents lost their challenge in March against plans for a 39ft mast which they regard as a health risk and an eyesore.

A judge rejected their claims that mobile phone operator Orange should have been told to use statutory powers available to it to acquire alternative sites.

"We are delighted that permission has been given to continue the fight," said local campaigner Karen Barratt.

"It has been going on for three and a half years now. We're tired but determined. The whole community is a hundred per cent behind this action."

Two children and their mums appealed against a planning inspector's decision to allow Orange to site a mobile mast in Byron Avenue - near many homes and Western Primary School.

The mothers of Phoebe St Leger Davey, 6, of Chilbolton Avenue, Winchester, and seven-year-old James Harrison, of Poets Way, acting on behalf of their children, asked the judge to rule that permission should never have been granted.

Orange had hoped to put the mast up in June but the company's plans now look set to be put on hold once again.

A High Court date has yet to be set but the hearing is unlikely to take place before November - almost four years after Orange's original application.

The bid has been dogged by opposition including a huge march by campaigners through the city centre.