SEDGEMOOR'S farmers remain on red alert over the increased threat of Chinese Lanterns during Hallowe'en and Bonfire Night.

The flaming lanterns which are let off into the sky are a common sight at parties at this time of year.

But they pose a real threat to farmers' livelihoods as the metal wiring is often eaten by cows and the flames can ignite acres of valuable land and destroy crops.

Wendy Heal, who runs Pepperhill Farm in Over Stowey with husband Matthew, said: “We often find lanterns on our land and I know sometimes cattle eat them and it causes them damage.

“It does become more of a problem around this time and we really do have to be on our guard; it is also the nuisance of having to pick up the debris from them.”

Ken Doig, National Farmers' Union secretary for Bridgwater, added: “People using Chinese Lanterns need to be aware of the potential damage they can cause.”

The NFU says its warnings have prompted the Government's agricultural department Defra to investigate the risks Chinese Lanterns pose.

John Mortimer, director of the Country Land and Business Association South-West, warned: “Although there are safety instructions on many packs, the responsibility remains firmly with the person who releases the naked flame - and they have no control over where it lands.”