Councillors have thrown out a proposal for a 20m phone mast because it would impact too much on the countryside.

They turned down the plans for a mast at Ansty Farm in Cuckfield Road, Ansty, against their own planning officers' advice.

Mid Sussex District Council received 65 letters of objection from residents worried it would "ruin unspoilt countryside" and be too close to homes.

The site was needed by mobile phone giant T-Mobile to provide coverage around Ansty, Cuckfield and the A272. It was intended to paint the mast brown to appear less conspicuous.

The officer's report into the application read: "Whilst it is accepted that some visual intrusion will occur, in view of the fact the proposal will be painted and landscaped - and has been reduce in scale as much as is technically possible - and that the site does not lie in the designated area of outstanding natural beauty, it is considered on balance this application should be approved."

However, councillors voted to refuse the application. It is not yet know whether T-Mobile will appeal against the decision.