A BRITISH Legion club could close after a plan to install a phone mast at the site was withdrawn at the last minute.

Mobile phone company O2 had wanted to erect the 12.5 metre structure on the grounds of Marsden British Legion off Grange Street.

But the firm withdrew the proposal yesterday after Kirklees Council planners recommended that councillors refuse the plan.

Legion chairman Dave Shaw fears the club could close as a result.

He said: “Everyone knows that pubs and clubs have been hit harder than any other industry. The income from the mast would have kept us afloat.

“It’s sad to think we might end. We’re clutching at straws and looking for money to keep going.”

Mr Shaw also criticised residents who opposed the mast for being too close to houses.

He said: “We’ve had another mast at the club for 10 years.

“These masts have to go somewhere. Are these people saying someone else should have the problem of masts?”