Sky lanterns should not be used to mark the new year, the fire service says.

The sale of lanterns was banned in 2015 but some are still being used.

Usually made from paper supported by a wire frame, the lanterns are carried into the sky by heat from a flame and can travel huge distances.

In a joint statement Office of Fair Trading and the fire service said they can present a significant fire risk on landing. They also warned they can present a threat to wildlife and livestock, damage crops, produce litter and risk personal safety.

The lit lanterns have also been confused as flares leading to false call outs for the RNLI and aviation issues.

Chief fire officer Kevin Groom said: ’Without doubt they have the ability to present significant fire and environmental hazards to our island and we urge the community to consider not using them.’