The impact chimneys have on the landscape has been highlighted.

Chimneys can be found throughout the landscape but are rarely noticed for their aesthetic qualities, it has been pointed out.

From cylindrical industrial chimneys to the brick flues of terraced houses, there are millions of chimneys to admire, Dan Donnelly said in an article for SouthCoastToday.com.

"More chimneys may exist in the city than actual buildings," he commented.

"Certainly all of these flues have either a practical or aesthetic purpose, but just like the hundreds of telephone poles we pass daily, they almost blend into the landscape."

As long as they are functioning correctly, chimneys are generally ignored, Mr Donnelly continued.

They also have an interior decorative purpose and can bring atmosphere to a room, particularly on a windy night, he added.

Fellow journalist Chris Madden has also recently highlighted the importance of the chimney and, in an article for the Leatherhead Advertiser, joined a chimney sweep for a day.