He was not waiting for a card from a loved-one or a bunch of red roses – he was waiting to hear whether a controversial Tetra mast would be built near his home.

February 14 was the date originally pencilled in by government planning inspectors to make an announcement over the mast, which is proposed to be built at Baker's Farm, Sidlesham.

Inspector Paul Griffiths had indicated at the end of the public inquiry sessions that Valentine's Day would be the day when he announced a decision.

But a new report, published by the National Radiological Protection Board has thrown a spanner into the works – delaying the decision for at least three weeks.

For the full story buy the Chichester Observer on February 17.