Hundreds of Sicilians have been protesting over

US military plans to build a satellite communication system on the Italian island.

The ground station is set to be constructed in the small southern town of Niscemi, which is already home to 46 American military satellites.

Over the last two years, locals have repeatedly complained about an alleged rise in health problems caused by the radiation. There are also concerns about the consequences for the eco-system of the historic Sughereta cork forest, and the effect on agricultural produce.