I READ with interest the report, from Katrina Davis, of the strange lights over Tavistock, early on New Year's Day.
I'd suggest they were a form of 'mini' hot-air balloon released from somewhere in the Chagford area. I too have seen these nearer to home and rather think there is someone locally who marks special occasions in this way, as I've seen them on other days of the year.
The Chinese have an ancient tradition of painting their hopes onto a paper balloon envelope, attached to a candle-holding basket, lighting the candle and releasing the balloon. The belief being the hopes are 'set free' and will, hopefully, come to fruition.
Although Chinese New Year does not coincide with the Western one, many peoples across the world see this time of year as the emergence from the dark of winter and thoughts turn to a brighter future.
Given Tavistock is not that far away as the crow (or balloon) flies from Chagford, it is not inconceivable that this is what Ms Davis saw passing in a favourable wind direction. But there again . . . ?
John Pearce
Chagford