Highlands and Islands MSP Donald Cameron is backing NFU Scotland’s condemnation of plans for a mass release of Chinese lanterns.

Mr Cameron said: “My region, which encompasses thousands of acres of heather moorland, is very vulnerable to wildfires, particularly after a spell of dry weather like the one we are experiencing now.

“NFU Scotland are rightly concerned about the possible impact of a release of lanterns on agricultural land and buildings and the threat to animals, not to mention the pressure wildfires would put on our emergency services.

“There are much better ways of showing appreciation of our frontline services and I very much hope that anyone contemplating releasing a Chinese lantern will think again.”