Chinese lanterns threat to farmers

Concerns have been raised by NFU Cymru members in Glamorgan following a recent spurt in the number of Chinese lanterns being released and landing on farmland in the county.

The lanterns have been used since the 13th century to symbolise hope and good luck, however, the growing trend in their use at stylish parties, festivals and private celebrations is causing concern for many NFU Cymru members in Glamorgan.

The worries are compounded because the lanterns are often released in large numbers, fly for up to 20 minutes, reaching up to a mile high and can be very difficult to trace.

Glamorgan NFU Cymru County Chairman Richard Isaac said, "Bought for as little as £2.40 these lanterns can cause severe damage to crops and farm land.

"It is not only the small flame which burns inside the lantern to create the glowing effect that is considered dangerous, the metal wire frame which a fuel cell is hosted inside can also cause damage. It could wreck machinery or be chopped up and get into animal feed - if digested by an animal it could cause significant injuries."

NFU Cymru has previously intervened in a similar problem of the mass release of helium balloons, for which there is now a much reduced incidence record. Mr Isaac ended, "I would urge anyone, from individuals to professional party organisers, to think twice about the risks posed when these lanterns are released.