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Local Trading Standards officers submitted 4 sample dolls for testing against the toy safety standard which revealed that the products did not comply with UK safety laws.

Apart from a very small number of exceptions, soft plush toys should be suitable for children under 36 months, but the products tested had detachable small parts that represent a potential choking hazard to young children and babies.

Two of the products were also tested for the presence of phthalates, chemicals used to make plastics softer.

High exposure levels to these at important development points in life are linked to adverse health effects. One of the products contained excessive levels.

Local councillors are urging parents to be cautious about giving these toys to small children, who are more likely to put them into their mouths.

Councillor Ian Cresswell, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Communities at ����vlog County Council said, “We’d urge parents to not give fake toys like this to small children and, if purchased for an older sibling, please ensure they don’t get into the hands of little ones.”

Trading Standards officers also agree that whenever a particular product is successful, others will try to copy it.

Councillor Cresswell added: “The people doing this don’t always make things to the highest standards, which is particularly dangerous where toys are concerned. However, our officers are following this up with the retailers to trace the source of these products, and will continue to look into issues like to keep our youngsters safe.”

The toys fail the requirements of BS EN71, the safety standard for toys, which means they breach the Toy Safety Regulations and supplying them is an offence.

If people are concerned, they should dispose of the items or contact the Trading Standards team by visiting the dedicated pages of the County Council website.