BUILTH Fest Carnival has decided to no longer hold the Balloon Race at this year’s event, on Saturday, June 16.

The committee unanimously voted to put an end to the activity at a meeting held on Thursday, June 7.

Rachael Hughes, chairperson of Builth Fest Carnival said it was an environmentally-conscious decision that everybody felt was the right thing to do.

Balloon releases have become popular for charitable causes, campaigns and for remembering loved ones.

But environmental groups have called for a complete ban on balloon releases because they pose a risk to wildlife and farm animals.

After seven years, committee members felt it was the right decision not to carry on releasing the balloons after media coverage about the negative environmental impacts

“Since reading the articles and seeing pictures of those poor animals tangled in string, I didn’t want to do it anymore,” said Rachael.

“People don’t realise the impact and should be made aware about the risks they pose to animals. More needs to be done to raise the issue and we hope that this decision will make people think about it in the future.

“The feedback we’ve received since announcing it on social media has been overwhelmingly positive.

“We believe it’s a step in the right direction.”

The National Farmers’ Union, the RSPCA and the Marine Conservation Society are all in favour of a nationwide ban on the release of balloons.

The RSPCA said: “Crucially, what goes up must come down. The RSPCA will continue to flag up the animal welfare dangers associated with sky lanterns and balloon releases, and encourage the take-up of safe and viable alternatives.

“We want to see people enjoying events while acting to keep themselves and animals safe.”

Builth Wells is building up for this Saturday’s summer extravaganza with a circus theme where there will be lots to see and do including a visit from Bristol-based Circus Antics.