Although they are a pretty sight, Chinese lanterns pose many dangers (LT, May 21).

The field behind my home is still littered with some of the thousands sent into the air on New Year’s Eve.

Farmers are very worried about their horrific effect on cattle and also the risk of setting fire to straw bedding.

Over the past few weeks we have seen moorland and trees devastated by fires, some of which may well have been caused by lit lanterns landing on tinder dry grass and heather.

In the interests of safety, it makes sense to ban the import and sale of these lethal weapons now, not later.

I hope one of our MPs will bring the matter to the attention of Parliament soon.

E Eastham, Milton Close, Darwen.