ANGRY residents fear their leafy Chandler's Ford suburb could be ruined by plans to put a mobile phone mast on land in an ancient country estate.

People living in Hocombe Road are outraged by the prospect of a 23-metre BT Cellnet tower on their doorsteps. It would only be about 40 feet away from the boundary wall of the sprawling Cranbury Park estate.

More than 25 feet of the structure would be seen above the trees and tower over the nearest houses which are less than 50 metres away.

The mast will also be close to a children's nursery and a popular camping site used by Scouts and Guides, giving rise to health fears.

Residents Paul Bartlett and Michael Convey, who are spearheading the campaign to block the mast plan, say they cannot understand why it is being put so close to homes when Cranbury Park covers such large area. They claimed that the mast would be a "monstrosity" on their doorstep.

Mr Convey said: "If a new mast must be built, it should be located close to the motorway, safely distant from residential areas.

"This is an extremely attractive road and nice place to live. Not only would residents be affected but many walkers, joggers and cyclists who use the area would also suffer.

"There are also fears that it would cause extensive damaged to woodland and wildlife in a historic parkland which has Grade II listed status.

And Mr Convey will be representing the views of about 140 residents who have lodged objections when the controversial application comes before Winchester council planners.

A council spokeswoman said the telecommunications sub-committee would make a return visit to the site to consider visual amenity aspects before reporting to the planning committee.

"They will be making their visit within the next few weeks. We do not have legal powers to consider health grounds," she added.

There was no one available for comment at the Chamberlayne Estates office at Cranbury Park.