Donkey dung energy powers lights

Donkey dung creates methane gas which is burnt off in lanterns

The organisers of the famous Blackpool illuminations are using donkey dung to power some specially created lights.

A London-based designer has made several contraptions powered by the waste produced by the resort's donkeys.

The special lights have been put together to mark the start of Energy Saving Week next Monday, to show how alternative forms of power can be used.

Festival director Philip Oakley does not think there are enough Blackpool donkeys to power all the illuminations.

"We are trying to stimulate ideas as to how we can possibly power up the illuminations and other lighting in future years," he said.

The lights are not on public display, but he said they might be used on some local streets for a few days.

Mr Oakley said the dung was loaded into specially-made machines, with the methane gas created being burnt off in lanterns.