PROTESTERS have triumphed in a battle against a mobile phone giant.

T-Mobile sparked concern in Lindley when they attempted to put a 13ft mast on Brunswick Works, in East Street.

But Kirklees Council officers have vetoed the plan because the building is listed.

The council's planning office was deluged with objections from people living nearby and parents whose children attend schools less than 100ft away.

Many people were worried about possible health risks.

Clr Tony Brice, who led the fight against the mast, said he was delighted at the decision.

"The fact is, even though experts have said there are no health problems with these mobile phone masts, people are still worried," he said. "And I can understand that. It is not long ago asbestos was thought to be safe.

"Neither officers nor councillors can stop the masts because of health fears though.

"Luckily in this case it came down to it being a listed building."

Clr Brice added he was worried because there were two other masts already near Lindley Infant and Nursery School and the neighbouring junior school.

"If this had been approved there would have been a triangle of masts with the schools in the middle," he said. "The question I wanted T-Mobile to answer was why can't they share with one of the other firms? That would surely have solved this problem.

"I am not anti-mobiles, I just think we need to be a bit more sensible about where we put the masts.

"I am sure they will be looking for alternative sites in Lindley so it is vital we keep our eyes open as to where. Hopefully it will not be on listed buildings or near the schools."

A spokesman for T-Mobile said: "There is a definite need for a mast in that area so we are disappointed at this decision.

"We are now reviewing our options with regards to Lindley and will potentially be looking at other sites."