A TELEVISION mast which was described by the Princess Royal as an eyesore, is due to be moved.

The 60ft high structure, on the Abbey Headland in Whitby, North Yorkshire, has been controversial ever since it was erected more than 20 years ago despite strong opposition from residents and conservationists.

It is used to transmit BBC channels, ITV, Channel 4 and radio stations to Whitby.

When she flew over the mast in a helicopter on a visit to Whitby a number of years ago, Princess Anne said it spoiled the panoramic views of the town.

Now, Crown Castle International, which owns and operates the mast, says it is planning to re-locate it because the nearby cliff edge has been eroding.

In the short-term, stabalisation work is to be carried out using concrete blocks to prevent it becoming unstable.

The scheme to move the mast is set to take place by 2006.

A Crown Castle International spokesman said: "Our aim is to make the replacement mast as unobtrusive as possible.

"Ultimately, the structure will be moved away from the abbey but it will take a lot of work to achieve it."

He said the company would work with councillors, heritage groups and residents to find the best alternative site to serve the Whitby area.