New calls for sky lanterns to be banned

The Country Landowners Association on the Isle of Wight is urging residents not to use the small hot air balloons around halloween and Bonfire Night.

The CLA argue that the lanterns pose a fire risk to humans and animals, as well as farm buildings, crops and houses with thatched roofs.

Members of the CLA have campaigned for the ban over the last three years, with backing from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, the Chief Fire Officers Association, and the Local Government Association.

Twenty-five councils in England have already banned sky lanterns, as well as most of Wales’ 22 local authorities.