SCOTLAND’S FARMERS have called on the Scottish public to have a happy – but lantern-free – bonfire night this week.

Speaking ahead of bonfires and fireworks being lit around the country this Thursday, NFU Scotland urged those setting off fireworks to give some consideration to any livestock that may be in fields or sheds, and said that it would welcome sky lanterns being banned from being part of any display.

The lanterns, which are constructed from paper with a wire or wooden frame and contain a lighted candle, pose both a fire risk – threatening stacks of hay and straw, woodland and farm buildings – and a danger to animals when they land within crops grown to feed livestock, where their wire frames can be ingested causing great harm.

The union understands that seven Scottish local authorities – Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, Falkirk, Highland, Shetland Islands, Orkney Islands and, most recently, Angus – have already banned the release of sky lanterns and/or helium balloons. NFUS would support all Scottish councils putting a similar ban in place.

NFUS Animal Health and Welfare policy manager Penny Johnston said: “Bonfire night and fireworks are a long established part of celebrations at this time of year. We believe people can have a great evening while taking the needs of those who live and work in the countryside into consideration.

“Sky lanterns are seemingly innocent devices, and are beautiful to look at, but they can cause untold damage as there is no control over where these burning structures of paper, metal and wood decide to land.

“Across the UK, there have been many reports now of fires started by lanterns and harm to the health of livestock when lanterns have landed in farmers’ fields and been eaten. There is a further risk to stock when grass is cut and ensiled for winter feed, and the wire is chopped up and subsequently contained in hay or silage.

“We applaud the action already taken against sky lanterns by seven local authorities in Scotland and we would look to other councils to take their responsibilities as seriously.

“Fireworks are a long established part of the celebrations at this time of year,” she continued. “Given the noise and bright lights, it is unsurprising that each bonfire night also brings a few reports of cattle, sheep, horses and dogs being scared and traumatised when fireworks are set off irresponsibly.

“Although winter is approaching, the fantastic autumn weather means that many livestock can still be found in the fields around Scotland’s cities, towns and villages. Taking the time to inform their keepers of any planned or private firework displays may prevent any unnecessary suffering for animals.

“Similarly, where livestock have been housed for the winter in sheds that are close to public places, consideration should be given to the wellbeing of the animals before any fireworks are set off nearby. Taking the time to consider the impact of any display – planned or otherwise – will ensure that all can enjoy this traditional, colourful but noisy time of year.”

- For in-depth news and views on Scottish agriculture, see this Friday’s issue of The Scottish Farmer or visit www.thescottishfarmer.co.uk