I WOULD like to thank the Bury Times for their coverage in the Friday (August 20) issue of the campaign by residents who were opposed to a Vodafone mast being sited on the grass verge opposite Glendale Avenue, Bury. I would also like to thank Councillor Sharkey and all the residents who took the time and trouble to oppose this plan.

I have received a letter from Tom Mitchell, development manager at Bury Metro stating the reasons why the council rejected Vodafone's application. In it he says that it would be "seriously detrimental to the residential amenities . . . of this predominantly open, mature landscaped area, by reason of its design, size and position" and that it "conflicts with the Bury Unitary Development Plan (UDP)".

I hope our success is an inspiration to others who feel intimidated by mobile phone companies. By banding together and writing individual letters, raising a petition, and with support from our local councillor, it is possible to succeed.

ROY SMITH

Glendale Avenue, Bury.