An Oxford church tower could become the next site for a controversial mobile telephone mast.

Leaders of St Michael and All Angels Church in Marston are in discussion with the UK's latest mobile phone company, Three, about putting a mast on the church.

Residents' views are mixed as they realise it would provide funding for the church, but are concerned about potential health risks.

The news comes after the Oxford Mail reported residents feared a cancer cluster in Lakeside, north Oxford, was caused by a similar mast shared by 02 (formerly BT Cellnet) and Orange.

Whether mobile telephone masts pose a danger to health has not been scientifically proved and research into their effects is continuing.

The firm has already installed masts and dishes at Somerville College, Oxford, has permission to use Lincoln College, and has earmarked several other sites across the city. David Clarke, 54, of the New Marston Residents' Association, said: "I know residents near the church are very concerned about it.

"The company will have to pay to put it on the church.

"I think if there is one large mast it will mean lots of high density radio waves, but if there are lots of small ones, they are not so intensive."

Ian Harrison, 59, of Jack Straw's Lane, said it was important that residents were given more information. "I have some sympathy with the lobby against masts and am prepared to keep an open mind about any potential for adverse effects," he said.

Residents living near the church have asked Three representatives to tell them more about the scheme at a public meeting.

Jonathan Walton, of Three, said: "We are arranging a date when we can talk to the residents and give them information from independent organisations on the health issues surrounding mobile telephone masts."

In March, the company held a similar meeting about plans to put equipment on an existing telephone exchange in London Road, Headington.

The Rev Elaine Bardwell, vicar of St Michael and All Angels Church, was not available for comment.