Camilla Jessen
Parents warned after unsafe Christmas toys found across UK
Parents across the UK are being urged to stay alert after trading standards officers seized large numbers of counterfeit children’s toys linked to serious safety risks, including choking hazards, just days before Christmas.
Fake toys discovered
Councils say fake versions of popular toys, including Labubu dolls and characters such as Bluey and Stitch, are being sold in shops across several regions.
Trading standards teams report a rise in counterfeit goods as demand for trending toys increases in the run-up to Christmas.
Labubu dolls, which surged in popularity earlier this year on TikTok, have become difficult to find in their original form. Investigators say this shortage has led to an influx of fakes, many of which fail basic safety requirements.
Hundreds of replica Labubu dolls were recently seized in the Highlands, with similar finds now reported in North Yorkshire.
Seizures in North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire Council confirmed an ongoing investigation after officers seized fake Labubu dolls in shops in Scarborough and Whitby. Counterfeit versions of Stitch and Bluey toys were also found.
Officials warned the toys may contain small detachable parts, unsafe materials or chemicals that pose a choking or poisoning risk.
Warnings to parents
Councillor Richard Foster said the council would take firm action against retailers selling unsafe toys. He warned parents that buying from unverified sellers could put children at risk.
Trading standards officials added that shoppers under financial pressure may be tempted by cheaper prices, increasing the risk of buying counterfeit goods.
What to look out for
The council advised parents to check toys for warning signs, including loose small parts, cords or ties that could cause strangulation, sharp internal components, exposed stuffing and plastics that may contain heavy metals.
In Moray, hundreds of fake Labubu dolls were also confiscated. Officers found poor stitching, exposed padding and parts that could easily detach.
Councillor David Gordan said counterfeit toys are often made without proper safety checks and can pose serious risks to children and pets.
Sources: North Yorkshire Council; Daily Record; Yorkshire Live.
