BUDLEIGH Salterton's mayor, councillor Courtney Richards, has raised concerns over the danger of launching Chinese lanterns over the town and surrounding areas.

BUDLEIGH Salterton's mayor, councillor Courtney Richards, has raised concerns over the danger of launching Chinese lanterns over the town and surrounding areas.

Cllr Richards said the lanterns could pose a fire risk if they fall onto thatch roofs or fields of crops.

Cllr Richards is urging people to think carefully and consider others before they launch the lanterns.

Cllr Richards highlighted his fears after discovering a lantern on the roof of his Elmside home.

He said the device narrowly missed landing on a property with a thatch roof.

Cllr Richards said: "It was about half a metre across and almost a metre high.

"Because I have a tiled roof there was no problem but had it landed on my neighbour's thatched roof, or in any of the surrounding fir trees, the consequences would have been disastrous.

"I have checked with the police and the launching of these lanterns is not an offence, but could be considered as anti-social behaviour if they are launched in inappropriate places.