Chinese lanterns are being banned at Oakham Castle and other Rutland County Council-run venues.

And, in the light of their potential environmental impact, the council is urging parish councils, event organisers and venues in the county to do the same.

Chinese lanterns, also known as sky lanterns, are made of paper-covered wire or bamboo frame and have an open flame. When lit they lift into the air, where they are intended to remain, until the flame goes out and the lantern falls back to earth.

Although small, they can travel several miles from point of release to where the eventually land.

Lanterns are often used to mark ceremonies and special occasions, including weddings.

However, says the council, they have potential to kill wildlife and pets who could eat or get trapped or tangled in a lantern when it evenually land. Marine life is also endangered when lanterns fall into rivers and coastal waters.

Chinese lanterns also pose a significant fire hazard to private and public property, particularly during the UK's busy summer wedding season.

Due to similar concerns about wildlife and the environment, Rutland County Council is also no longer allowing the release of helium balloons from its venues.

Rutland County Councillor and farmer from T W Brown & Son, Andrew Brown explains: "We understand that lanterns can add something special to a celebration.

"However, many people do not realise the dangers and risks involved when setting the lanterns off into the sky.

"I would urge parish councils, hotels and event organisers to think twice before buying the flying lanterns and releasing them.

"Unfortunately, all too often, Chinese lanterns land on farmland.

"Their fine razor-sharp bamboo frames do not biodegrade and can cause immense suffering to animals by puncturing their stomachs.

"Not only that, if the lanterns are still alight when they land they can destroy crop fields in seconds. Let's make Rutland lantern free."

Councillor Gordon Brown, Cabinet Member for the Environment at Rutland County Council, said: "The use of Chinese lanterns to mark special occasions, including weddings, has become more common in the UK in recent years.

"Although it's still a rare request during weddings held at Oakham Castle, we are mindful of the growing concern that these lanterns represent a danger to wildlife and the environment.

"Ahead of the influx of wedding bookings that traditionally follows Christmas and New Year, we're letting people know that we won't be allowing Chinese lanterns at council venues in future and would strongly discourage their use at ceremonies elsewhere in the county."

The council is suggesting a number of alternatives to Chinese lanterns, including static lanterns, stationary candles and outdoor nightlights.