A MOBILE phone mast is threatening to cast a shadow over a school playground.

Orange PCS Ltd mobile phone company has announced plans to install a 30ft mast on some disused land owned by Railtrack by a footpath between Gregories Road and Baring Road, yards from the Bridge Cottage Nursery School in Baring Road.

Elizabeth Tompkinson, who runs the school, said companies should be more aware where they place the mobile phone masts.

She added: "My feeling is that more care should be taken in the siting of these masts in view of the recent bad press surrounding electricity pylons."

A Gregories Road woman, who wants to be anonymous, said she was concerned about the health risks involved with the location of the mast in a primarily residential area.

She added: "I thought when these masts were placed, they should avoid these kinds of areas.

"It might be bad for business because as a parent I would be very concerned."

A spokesman for Orange said: "Orange acknowledges public concern regarding the siting of transmitters on buildings such as schools and hospitals, however there is no conclusive evidence that makes a link between exposure to radio waves, transmitter masts and long term public health risks."