The CLA in the North has again added its voice to calls for people to celebrate Chinese New Year without releasing sky lanterns.

The Association, whose members own over half the rural land in England and Wales, says that the main concern is the fire risk as the lanterns, which carry a naked flame wherever the wind takes them.

Douglas Chalmers, Director CLA North said: “This is not just a rural issue. Airports, coastguards, farmers, fire-fighters and landowners have all expressed their concern, but everyone, whether in town or country, will need to keep an eye on the sky over the days following 3 February, simply to ensure their property is safe.

“No safety instructions can eliminate the risk. Only an outright ban will ensure the safety of our livestock, land and property.”