CAMPAIGNERS celebrating the refusal of plans to extend a phone mast in Beverley now want the structure taken down altogether.

Protesters who fought proposals by mobile phone firm O2 to extend the mast near homes and schools at Beverley Town Cricket and Recreation Ground are considering raising funds to have the Orange-owned mast decommissioned.

The rent paid by Orange provides the cricket club – marking its centenary next year – with vital funds.

But now campaigners are hoping to work with the club to find an alternative cash flow.

Beverley Mast Action Group member Anne Watkins, of Copandale Road, said: "We are delighted with the committee's decision, but now we would really like the mast taken down.

"We are planning to work with the cricket club to see if we can raise alternative funds so they don't need the mast there.

"We may set up a committee to look into this."

Club president Colin Wainwright is open to the idea, although he has yet to discuss the matter with the committee.

He said: "We objected to the application because it would have totally dominated the area and we want to get along with residents.

"I can't see any reason why we can't have discussions on this, but it's for the committee to decide. In terms of revenue, the rent we receive is significant."

The eastern area planning committee unanimously rejected O2's plans to extend the mast.

An O2 spokesperson said: "We at O2 are currently assessing our options before a decision is made whether or not to appeal against the decision to refuse the planning application."