FOR those in the know it’s been an uncomfortable truth that something used to celebrate and more often to commemorate can actually cause extreme harm and usually death.

I’m talking about Chinese lanterns, these seemingly beautiful nymphs, as they drift off into the night sky carrying our memories and love to lost family members, often wreak havoc with nature when they sail back down to earth as their candle dims. The possibility of fire is an obvious hazard when the ground is so dry in the warmer months but livestock often die as a result of eating grass and silage containing shards of razor sharp wire, the remnants of the lanterns frame. Cheshire East Council has banned the use of these silent killers at all licensed events and I would hope that Cheshire West follows their sensible approach.

It is us however who need to act responsibly and recognise that Chinese lanterns are essentially lethal litter and could cause the agonising death of an animal or fire to someone’s property.

When we remember our loved ones let’s all try to act responsibly.

Beryl Jones Address supplied