The releasing of balloons and Chinese lanterns has devastating effects on wildlife and the environment. We live in a beautiful part of the country with the Lake District lying in a huge part of Allerdale, let's do something about it before it becomes a problem.

Balloons land in fields, trees and water as a form of litter. These balloons are then eaten by livestock, tangled in birds wings and beaks, and swallowed by sealife, often with fatal results. 

Chinese lanterns have been found to be the cause of some fires on both property and land, including wildfires, which then has a knock on effect for wildlife again. Cases have also been reported of animals eating them and the wire that holds them together being found wrapped around tongues, necks and organs. 

As a horse owner and animal lover I have followed many stories from across the globe involving incidents where balloons and lanterns are to blame, unfortunately, very few have happy endings. 

While I understand people like to release balloons to remember a loved one there are other ways to do this without harming the environment. Plant trees, build a memorial garden, hold get togethers and talk about the good times, these are just a few environmentally friendly options.

We are surrounded by fells and lakes, do we really want to litter them with balloons? Do we want to see our resident endangered ospreys trailing a balloon string behind them that could get caught up in trees and fences? Do we want to see our forests set alight by a stray Chinese lantern?

Sign the petition and encourage Allerdale council to ban the intentional release of balloons and Chinese lanterns in our area.