A VILLAGE has banned Chinese lanterns after they sparked safety fears.

Parish councillors in Great Bentley have outlawed the candle-powered lanterns which are often launched into the air at parties.

Local farmers pleaded for a ban after lanterns were let off from the village's famous green.

The council said the lights "floated dangerously over tinder-dry farmland" and were a fire hazard.

There are also fears that rusting wire from the lanterns could injure farm animals.

The council voted unanimously to ban their launch from its land.

Chairman Jonathan Hills said he hoped other councils and central government would follow their lead.