Town councillors have decided not to oppose a telecommunications company proposal to hide a mobile phone mast inside a landmark church spire at Knaresborough, North Yorkshire.

Vodafone wants to put the mast inside the spire of Holy Trinity Church, which dominates the town centre.

Town councillors discussed the issue after protest from a two Knaresborough residents concerned about possible health risks.

Town clerk Alan Benton said councillors understood the mast met Government guidelines and felt hiding it inside the spire was better than erecting an outdoor mast.

There have already been protests from local people about outdoor communications equipment at the town's police station, fire station and telephone exchange.

A final decision will be taken by Harrogate Borough Council which is seeking further information about the plans