Lamp tradition is burning out

WE used to see hung ming teng (newspaper lanterns which rise when heated by a flame) everywhere at this time of the year in the New Territories. But since the Government banned this activity, the tradition is dying.

This is a real pity because it was an incredible sight to see them ''flying''. I can understand why the Government wanted to stop people following the custom since it caused a number of hill fires. Nevertheless, I really admire the people who created such spectacular things.

I know a lot of people in Hong Kong have no idea what they are or what they look like. Maybe we should let people know this sort of culture exists before it completely dies out K. Y. CHUNG Lam Tsuen