They may look pretty, but Chinese Lanterns can be deadly to livestock.

That's the stark warning that has been outlined to local MP Simon Hart by farmer's union officials.

The paper lanterns contain lit candles and can fly for up to a mile after being sent up into the sky. But many contain wire frames that can prove fatal to cattle.

"With the nights drawing in and Halloween and Bonfire Night just a few weeks away I would urge people to think twice before they use Chinese Lanterns," said Mr Hart.

"They do look lovely but once they are out of sight they can cause all sorts of problems.

"If the lanterns come down in silage fields then the metal wire frames can go through the forage harvester and end up being fed to cattle."

One farmer from Burton found 10 lanterns on his fields over a three month period this summer.

Gareth Vaughan, President of the Farmers Union of Wales said: "This metal can prove fatal to cattle if they eat them. We have had a number of reports from members of these lanterns being found in fields.

"And of course there is also a danger at dry times of year that they can cause fires."

Mr Hart added: "I don't think anyone would think it acceptable to drive around country lanes throwing Chinese Lanterns out of the window and yet this is effectively what they are doing by sending them flying off into the night."