As Halloween and bonfire Night approach, the CLA in the North is asking people to not include Chinese or sky lanterns as part of any celebrations.

The Association believes that the risk of fire to land and property, and threat to people, livestock and pets simply cannot justify the continued use of what many people now realise is as a menace.

Douglas Chalmers, Director CLA North, said: “Manufacturers and importers defend their products as an “environmentally friendly” way for people to enjoy themselves, but it is patently obvious that they are nothing more than a potential lethal fire risk.”

“Other countries - including parts of China – have seen fit to ban their use as the list of problems they cause grows ever larger. If the Chinese can ban “Chinese” lanterns, I believe we should follow suit and put an end to the threat.

“There are safety instructions on many packs, but the responsibility rests firmly with the person who releases the naked flame and has no control over where it lands.

“I would urge anyone considering using sky lanterns to think again. Would you set one off towards your own house? Even open countryside contains houses, farms, farmland and woodland where people’s and animals’ lives could be put at risk.

“It cannot be right that one group of people’s so-called celebrations can cause at best anxiety, and at worst real damage, to others.”