ORGANISERS of Malvern's Festival of Innovation have invited Malvern Hills Conservators to find out more about drones at this year's event.

The invitation, which has been accepted by Conservators' director Duncan Bridges, follows proposals to ban the remotely-piloted aircraft from the Malvern Hills and surrounding commons.

The Conservators feared that the drones were disturbing other users of the hills as well as wildlife.

The Festival of Innovation, which is being held in October, will include a hands-on drone experience in Priory Park during the Festival's family day.

As well as demonstrations by drone operators and static displays, there will be racing and breath-taking performances by drones completing a series of obstacle courses.

Festival organiser Adrian Burden said: "We want to show the Conservators that some drones aren't at all threatening, can be virtually silent and are not something to be overly concerned about. They are going to play an increasing role in our society and their benefits far outweigh any perceived problems."

"Indeed, across Europe and in the States, trials are on-going to establish how drones can be used as early responders for search-and-rescue teams as well as the emergency services. It makes sense that drones are able to reach inaccessible and remote areas more speedily than t manned vehicles."

Conservators' director Duncan Bridges said: "We welcome the opportunity to see the variety of ways in which drones can be used and recognise there are clear advantages of using drones for monitoring and photography and filming purposes.

Where appropriate to do so, we will provide permission for such projects.

"With a large number of visitors and sensitive and protected species on the hills and commons, it is important that we ensure drones are used in right places at the right times."

The Malvern Festival of Innovation, now in its fifth year, showcases social, technological and business innovation in a single event that attracts thousands of visitors from all over the UK.

This year, the festival has an even more packed programme throughout its six days from October 3 to 8.

To find out more about the festival, visit festival-innovation.com/programme.