VICTORIOUS residents who battled against plans for a second transmitter mast near their homes were delighted when the application was refused by councillors.

SPAM (Strong Protest Against Mast) -- a protest group set up by residents earlier this year -- handed over a petition containing more than 250 signatures opposing the NTL mast on health grounds and the fact it would look "an eyesore."

The proposed 41 metre-high lattice tower to the side of the existing tower with a number of different antennaes, two ground-based antennae and two three-metre high equipment cabins were to be put next to the existing Pendle Forest Transmitter Mast.

Residents' concerns were heard by members of the Barrowford and Western Committee. who refused the application and said that after considering all the evidence they were not convinced about the safety of the equipment on health and safety grounds.

They also decided that if a second mast and its accompanying equipment were to be put alongside the existing mast it would lead to a loss of residential amenity and would not be in keeping with the Pendle Local Plan.

Resident Claire Milligan, who lives approximately 130 metres from the proposed site, said on behalf of SPAM: "It was a unanimous decision by the committee to turn down the mast put in by NTL and One2One in an area of outstanding beauty and we are delighted that common sense has prevailed.

"We would like to thank all the councillors and local residents who petitioned and supported us and all the people in the local churches that were praying for us.

"The outcome was right and just for local people and our beautiful countryside and we are looking for support to continue to protect our heritage should NTL appeal against the decision. We are disgusted that they wanted to come in and rip up our countryside and put in huge buildings and concrete towers. "If any other groups fighting masts want to contact me for information they can on 01282 450013 and I would be glad to help."

Claire said at the meeting: "We would like to thank the right honourable Tony Blair who commented on plans for a mast in his constituency and said it should be placed in a less conspicuous area and away from local residents. We are pleased that the government is backing us on this. What is good for him is good for us."