Sir, - The North York Moors National Park Authority is advertising in this week's paper the planning application received from BT Cellnet to erect a 15 metre monopole mast on land owned by Faceby Farms at the junction of the A172 Stokesley Road and the western lane leading into Carlton in Cleveland opposite Sexhow Lane leading to Hutton Rudby.

This proposed mobile phone mast is to be set apart from the nearby trees and is over twice their height. A prefabricated grey cabin is also proposed with barbed wire around it at a height well over that of the adjoining hedge.

This proposal is within the national park and is highly visible from all angles along the A172. The lane is also one of the few entry points into the park from the north and used by the Moorsbus. It is used regularly by walkers and gliders visiting the very popular Carlton Bank.

Thousands of children have used for decades the carlton outdoor centre and scout centre and will remember their crocodile lines in their colourful waterproofs, walking across the adjoining field leading into Carlton. If the proposal is approved, this magnificent view of the foothills of the Cleveland hills will be severely damaged and spoilt.

Whilst there is undoubtedly a need for these masts, it is a shame that BT Cellnet have not given much information in their application. Local residents have good reception on their BT Cellnet mobiles and no facts have been given on where else they have looked for alternative sites. Constructional details are minimal and no attempt has been made to reflect the fact that this proposal is in the national park. Health risks have been totally ignored despite the many national concerns that have been raised.

I hope that the many drivers who enjoy the views along this road, together with local residents of Sexhow, Carlton, Busby and Faceby - and the thousands who know this area from their schooldays - will feel able to register their concern.

Local residents will be able to make their views known at the parish council meeting on October 12.

JOHN G IRWIN

Field Edge,

Carlton in Cleveland.

Views ignored

Sir, - Why is it that Coun Walsh ignores what is actually said and then uses other people's letters to ridicule and deride their opinions?

As his "opponent", I expect it, but I do object to the rather nasty, belittling replies he gives to readers when they write in. Potential writers please don't be put off by Coun Walsh, you are entitled to your views and long may you be able to express them.

Which brings me to my reply to him. The pier restoration was paid for by lottery funds, the Saltburn in Bloom by voluntary contributions and the beach centre by Rural Challenge money from various sources; they have not been paid for by the council.

As for Guisborough library, that was paid for by insurance after being burnt down, the council only helped in a bid for new sports facilities and the relocation of the council offices may come about as a result of a partnership with a private company, again not paid for by the council.

I still stand by what I said, it is voluntary groups who have made us proud of our towns, not the council and they have no right to take credit for something they have not done.

It is misleading, dishonest and true to New Labour "spin". It is clear why they do it though, with the second highest council tax in the land and little to show for it, they have to try anything to win votes.

Coun BARBARA HARPHAM

Leader of the Conservative group

Redcar & Cleveland Council