CLA backs call to boycott sky lanterns

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The CLA in the North is backing a new call from government to boycott sky lanterns this Bonfire Night.

The CLA, which represents thousands of landowners, farmers and rural businesses throughout the region, says the Government is right to recommend that sky lanterns should not be used in its new community guide to organising bonfires.

CLA North Regional Director Dorothy Fairburn said: “It is very good news that the Government is now properly starting to recognise the dangers of sky lanterns. Far too many farmers and landowners have experience of how they can kill animals, litter the countryside and start fires.”

“Many of the local authorities in the North we have written to as part of our campaign to ban sky lanterns are now prohibiting their use on council-owned land because they are starting to understand the issues.

“We hope that eventually the Government will take heed and implement an outright ban.”

Communities secretary Eric Pickles said the new guide provided: “practical advice and information for local communities that want to hold their own local celebrations.”