'UFO' mystery solved

9:29am Friday 25th July 2008

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THE Bewdley ‘UFO’ mystery has been solved.

A number of Bewdley residents contacted the Shuttle/Times&News to report sightings of orange lights floating across the sky on Saturday night, between 10.30pm and 11pm.

It has been confirmed that the lights were Chinese lanterns, set off at a local wedding.

Andrew Redstall got in touch to tell us that his sister, Kate, and Tom Gittins held their wedding reception at Crundalls farm, in Bewdley, on Saturday night.

As part of the celebrations, they let off between 50 and 60 Chinese lanterns.

Mr Redstall said: “I can’t believe the fuss it’s created and I think it’s absolutely hilarious.

“It was a windy night, so the lanterns all headed off in one direction. We didn’t expect people would think we were being invaded by UFOs.

“Sorry to disappoint everyone.”

Chinese lanterns are often used at firework displays and have been blamed for some suspected UFO sightings in recent years. After they are lit, the lanterns float into the air and across the sky like balloons.

Other Bewdley residents contacted us to say they believed the lights had come from a function or wedding.

Thomas Cox said: “We were among the large number of people thinking we were being invaded and, yes, they did look like UFOs.

“However, just before going to bed I looked up to Crundalls farm and saw a large party gathering.

“I thought it was a bit strange, considering it was in the middle of a field that is normally full of cows, but I went to bed.

“The next morning, I decided to head up to Crundalls to find out about this party.

“It turned out it was a local wedding reception. I spoke to the bride and she confirmed they had let off about 60 Chinese lanterns. Quite amazing things.”

Lee Hughes said he heard loud cheers as the lights rose into the sky and guessed it was “some kind of party”.

John Brooke said he could tell they were Chinese lanterns but enjoyed the display nonetheless.

He added: “Thanks are due to those responsible for this attempt to light up our lives. It gave pleasure to many of us.

“Any chance of Chinese lanterns to round off the Bewdley Carnival fireworks next year?”