A COUNCILLOR has warned the public not to take part in the 'dangerous' sky lantern tributes to the NHS.

Andrew Coles, a Labour councillor for West Oxfordshire District Council (WODC) said it is irresponsible and reckless to encourage people to release sky lanterns.

He added: "They pose a serious risk and can be lethal to both wildlife and livestock.

"They can also damage crops, especially with the fields being so dry from our recent spell of good weather.

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"Our emergency services are under enormous pressure and strain right now.

"If people want to show their support for the NHS they should look for other ways like joining us on Thursday evenings as we applaud our NHS heroes, key workers and community volunteers from our doorsteps."

In January 2018, WODC banned the release of sky lanterns and helium balloons from council-owned land.

It was Mr Coles' motion that led to the ban.