Coastguards are asking people launching Chinese lanterns near the coast to contact them following a spate of false alarms.

The paper lanterns, which rise into the air once lit, are becoming more popular in Britain and are often used during weddings or beach parties.

They can be mistaken for distress flares and have led to several false alarms with good intent over the summer.

The most recent of these was last night when a concerned member of the public staying at Lydstep Caravan Park contacted ciastguards to report a red flare sighting.

Coastguards established that the characteristics of the “flare” matched those of a Chinese lantern another lantern was then spotted going up looking out from Lydstep Bay towards the Giltar Point Area.

"Please could you to contact us on 01646 690909 if you are taking Chinese lanterns or fireworks to the coast at dusk, so that we know the likely source of red flare sightings." said a spokesman for Milford Haven coastguards.

"Advise the coastguard at Milford Haven of the location and time of launching to avoid unnecessary coastguard investigation."

The spokesman also said that if members of the public see a light or a flare going up into the sky they should not hesitate to contact the coastguards who will always investigate it.