BOSSES from the company behind a controversial Tetra mast proposed for Dorchester will give their side of the story at a meeting tomorrow.

Expert in microwave research Barrie Trower has already been signed up to explain to people the potential horrors he claims the telecommunications mast will bring to the town if it is installed.

Now meeting organiser Coun David Barrett has confirmed that a representative from the applicant Airwave O2 will also be on hand to explain why they think the mast is needed.

The telecoms firm hopes to erect the mast at the Keep Military Museum in Bridport Road and says that it is needed to provide a secure digital network for the emergency services.

But Coun Barrett says that hundreds of people have already signed a petition opposing the proposal and hopes that as many people as possible will come along to Friday's meeting to hear both sides of the story.

Coun Barrett, who has organised the meeting with fellow Dorchester town councillor Leslie Phillips said: "The applicants have now confirmed that they will be sending a representative to the meeting. So we are hoping as many people as possible will come along to find out more about what is being proposed."

Coun Barrett said that a petition opposing the mast on the proposed site was gathering support.

"We will be handing in the petition to West Dorset District Council and hope to have more than 1,000 signatures opposing the mast."

As well as Mr Trower and the representative from Airwave O2, Radiation Research Trust chairman Mike Bell and West Dorset MP Oliver Letwin will also speak at the meeting.

Coun Barrett added: "No long-term studies have yet been completed that can reassure the public there's no risk to their health from the emissions of these masts.

"The effect of these masts, with exposure to radiation levels and pulsing effects, is a very worrying and serious concern.

"I hope that many people will come along to the meeting and find out more."

The meeting starts at 7.30pm tomorrow at the Corn Exchange.