MOBILE phone "black spots" are still causing problems in Ryedale claims a business leader - despite assurances from telecommunications companies that reception was set to improve.

One year ago, phone giants BT Cellnet and Orange told the Evening Press they were on the verge of launching plans to build more masts.

But phone users in the area say coverage is still poor in many parts of the district and have called for further improvements.

Denys Townsend, chairman of Malton Chamber of Trade, said there were still difficulties.

He said: "It certainly creates a problem because of the nuisance factor involved when mobile phones are switching off during a conversation.

"If one needs to contact someone then very often it's difficult to get the connection."

Accountant Mr Townsend said many of his clients were farmers who used mobiles at work.

But he said: "Sometimes I cannot get through even when they are working adjacent to the A64."

He added: "They are a great boon to speeding business, but there are certainly still black spots."

Mr Townsend said a balance had to be struck between the business need and residents.

But he added: "There will be places where masts can be situated where they don't make a blot on the landscape."

A spokeswoman for Orange said the company was addressing the problem of poor reception in rural areas like Ryedale.

She said: "A number of new transmitter sites are planned.

"But all of the proposed locations we consider must meet our technical needs, our customers' coverage requirements, and comply with planning regulations."

Vivien Ashby, community relations manager for BT Cellnet in North Yorkshire, said they would welcome support from Ryedale companies wanting improved network coverage.

She said: "If businesses want a better service then the more support we can get the more welcome that would be."

Carole Williams, of BT Cellnet, said: "There is a clash between wanting the benefits of a mobile phone and not wanting a cellsite in the landscape.

"We recognise that the public want to be able to influence what happens in their locality."

Updated: 13:33 Wednesday, November 28, 2001