Parents fear their children's health could be at risk because of the stream of banners across the borough advertising a fast food outlet. More than 60 people have signed an online petition to object to the recent apprearance of 130 2ft long signs on lampp

Parents fear their children's health could be at risk because of the stream of banners across the borough advertising a fast food outlet.

More than 60 people have signed an online petition to object to the recent apprearance of 130 2ft long signs on lampposts in Crouch End, Muswell Hill and Hornsey.

And residents have vented their fury at Haringey Council for signing a 15-year contract which allows unrestricted advertising for fast food chains and estate agents.

The petition has been set up on a special website by resident Brian Bowles.

The Broadway reported last month how the 56-year-old professional mimic, of Redston Road, Hornsey, fiercely objected to the advertising.

Now his website has attracted strong opinions from across the borough.

Further education lecturer Pat Havell, also of Redston Road, said: "I'm particularly opposed to the Kentucky Fried Chicken adverts because we are all meant to be encouraging children to eat healthily and not eat fast food.

"It seems inappropriate for the council to be promoting KFC."

Clive Carter, of Stapleton Hall Road, Stroud Green, said: "The council has a damn cheek, foisting these adverts on the public.

"This has got up people's noses because the fast food adverts on display have been approved by the council. There is an implied endorsement from the council - which is very foolish and irresponsible."

Mr Bowles said: "It's pretty evident that fast food is a major contributing factor in childhood and teenage obesity.

"Jamie Oliver highlighted this in the well-documented work he did on school meals.

"The very least Haringey Council could do is not accept adverts from multi-nationals that encourage the consumption of saturated fats."

The council's contract began in 2005, which means companies can to advertise in Crouch End, Hornsey and Muswell Hill until 2020.

Council leader Cllr George Meehan apologised for any offence caused by the advertisements and said: "Our lamppost banners have been in place since 2005, and were chosen as an attractive and flexible replacement for our old lamppost advertising boards which were tatty and little used.

"In common with other authorities we adopted them because they are a cost effective means of providing information about council services while also giving local groups, businesses and event organisers the opportunity to advertise economically. Since they have been in place we have received five complaints.