RESIDENTS of Calstock have formed an action group to try and stop a 98ft high railway communications mast being installed in the village.

Around 50 people attended a public meeting at Calstock Village Hall last Friday and opposed the plans by Network Rail which form part of a new railway communications system.

Masts are also planned for Bere Alston and Bere Ferrers and these too have met with objection. Residents say it is not right that Network Rail does not need planning permission.

Chairman of Calstock Parish Council Dick Hoile said an action group of nine people had been formed in Calstock as a result of the meeting: 'The aim is to meet with Network Rail and see if there is any alternative.

'We understand the need to improve safety but question whether this is necessary on a single branch line where only one trains runs at any one time.'

Cllr Hoile said that on the Tarka Valley line there were more masts but there were at a reduced height. 'They would cause less of a blight if they were lowered,' he said.

Opponents object to the height of the mast in an area of outstanding natural beauty and a World Heritage Site.