FURIOUS Ludgershall campaigners are batting to get two controversial Tetra antennae removed from their village.

Worried residents from Stable Close have set up a pressure group after concerns that the MM02 Airwave aerial, put up yards from their homes, could have major health implications.

The Fight Against Tetra at Ludgershall (Fatal) group has been formed by five families, angry that the telecommunications giant has been given the go-ahead to install the device.

Chairman of Fatal Julie Hanaby-Lee said: "We agree that Tetra needs to be used but we don't see why it should be so close to a residential area, although 02 Airwave says it's safe."

Householder Elaine Raisey, whose home backs directly on to the antennae, said her six-year-old daughter had suffered frequent nosebleeds and sleepless nights since it was installed.

Other family members have complained of problems with their vision.

MM02 Airwave spokesman Peter Sitch said the company was given planning permission to add the Tetra antennae on to an existing base station.

He said: "I cannot understand the people living in those houses.

"They bought their houses with two existing base stations and this is in exactly the same position, and all that's happening is that there is a third operator.

"It comes within government guidelines."

Now the Stable Close campaigners have collected more than 300 signatures in protest.

They say the Tetra device is a monstrosity and a health menace.

They have also been in close talks with their MP Michael Ancram, who is lending his support.

He said: "I am supporting any constituents in their objection to the location of the mast, as well as having genuine concerns regarding the mast itself."

Green party Euro MP Caroline Lucas has already called for an EU-wide ban on Tetra after fears over radiation emissions.

Residents' concerns have also been heightened after warnings by property chiefs that the value of their homes could now plummet by as much as 20 per cent.

Tetra (the Terrestrial Trucked Radio system) is being installed across the country to create a digital radio network for use by emergency services and is part of a £2.9bn government contract.

All police forces in England, Scotland and Wales will be linked up to the system by 2005, in a bid to provide clearer, more reliable communication.

Fatal will hold its second public meeting at Ludgershall Scout hall on June 4, to make more people aware of the antennae and drum up support for its cause.