The Twelfth: Why are bonfires lit in Northern Ireland?

Bonfires are largely constructed from wooden pallets and household waste but old tyres are sometimes placed in the pyre, and these release toxic fumes when burned.

More eco-friendly beacons have been appearing around Northern Ireland in the last few years.

These are smaller, pyramid-shaped steel structures, which are pre-filled with a carbon neutral willow wood. They stand on a bed of sand to avoid damage to roads and surfaces, and are designed to be reusable.

Not everyone is a fan of them, though.

While beacons are arguably safer and environmentally friendlier, collecting materials for the bonfire and helping build it has been a long-standing and proud tradition among many families and communities.