Teachers at Newark Hill Primary School, in Eastfield Road, Peterborough, yesterday launched a petition against plans for a 15m high mast on a grass verge next to Eastfield Cemetery.

Yesterday they were outside the school – one of the biggest primary schools in the city, with more than 400 pupils – collecting signatures from worried mums, dads and carers.

Although no evidence has been found that the masts can damage health, there has been outcry whenever they are built in residential areas across the country.

And concerned parents in Peterborough were quick to speak out against the plans.

Joanne Bell (36), of nearby Lyvelly Gardens, said: "I don't want to see this mast anywhere near the school.

"My four-year-old son Joshua goes to this school and it is not fair on him or the other kids.

"I can't understand why they would plan to put such a mast so near a primary school, there must be other areas it could go."

Claire Pardy's son Joshua (4), also attends the school.

Claire, of Reeves Way, Eastfield, Peterborough said: "Although there has been no proof that the masts are dangerous, there is also not enough evidence to prove they are not.

"What happens if in 20 years it is discovered that the masts damage your health? It will be too late. Our children cannot be treated as guinea pigs."

Jay Patel (39), of Eastern Avenue, Dogsthorpe, said: "I am against it. I have signed the petition and will write to the company with my views. It is a ridiculous place to put one of these masts."

Robin Sutton, headteacher, said he had "serious reservations" about the mast.

He said: "Understandably, many of the parents are upset about this. I have asked them to write directly to the company if they wish to protest.

"Obviously, the school has serious reservations about these plans. I think the company is waiting to see what sort of reaction it will get before they put in a planning application.

"It looks like there could be quite a backlash."

Plans for the development include a 15m high telecommunications mast, three antennas, a 20cm dish, and radio equipment.

3G Communications, the Birmingham-based company behind the proposals, are giving residents 14 days to have their say on the plans before they submit them to Peterborough City Council.