MAST: The landscape viewed from Cliddesden School, as you make your way home to Ellisfield, certainly lifts the spirits.

The only man-made object within a 180-degree sweep is the Swallick Mast, installed in the early '90s.

The Ellisfield Volunteer Group warned villagers about a planning application which proposed increasing the height of the mast to 25 metres and then adding three new antennas and three new communication dishes.

Many residents sent in objections and were very pleased when the application was rejected by Basingstoke planners.

An appeal was lodged with the planning inspectorate and, based only on the original objections, Basingstoke's reasons for rejection and a site visit, the inspector has now decided to allow the application.

When is this scarring of the countryside going to end? Ellisfield's own mast now looks like a madman's Christmas tree!

ENTERTAINMENT: On a lighter note, tickets are still available for the Ellisfield hall event on Friday, January 30.

Shep Woolley, the folk singer and comedian, is providing the entertainment, and a fish and chip supper is included in the cost of the £10 ticket.

Support the hall committee and have a good time as well. Tickets are available from any committee member.

SALLY Adams is snowed under with work, so I'll be standing in for the next few weeks. If you have an event that needs publicising, call me on 381269.