AS I understand it, the application for a mast to be erected on St Mary's Church in Surrenden Road, Brighton, was withdrawn by the church in deference to objections made by neighbours. Councillors Spray and McCaffery were jubilant at the residents' victory and Brighton Pavilion MP David Lepper promised to put pressure on the Government to give firm guidance to local authorities about mobile phone masts.

Not so in the case of the mast approved behind PC World in Old Shoreham Road, Hove, which attracted opposition in the form of almost 500 signatures.

I am informed by a resident who attended the meeting that Councillor Worgan spoke eloquently and without hesitation on our behalf to no avail. He deserves our thanks for his effort.

The arrogance of this council, the worst we have ever had, is summed up by Councillor James' claim that they had to look at the evidence, which was inconclusive, and had no option but to approve it. "We need to go to the Government and say we want a new direction on mobile phone masts," she said.

I look forward with interest to a similar comment from her when the application is heard for a mast to be erected close to St Andrew's School, a matter of yards from her residence.

Members of the council are public servants, not our masters, and should be reminded from time to time who pays their salaries.

-Miss A. Knatt, Amherst Crescent, Hove