PARENTS have been issued with a warning this Christmas to think twice before buying toys that fire plastic projectiles.

Council chiefs are concerned about the safety of the toys, which could pose health and safety risks to younger children.

Despite changes to toy safety standards in 2007, Hampshire County Council’s Scientific Service found that more than half were failing to meet important guidelines.

In a sample of 19 popular gifts, 58 per cent failed to meet the essential safety requirements set out by British Standards and the Toy (Safety) Regulations Act, posing risks of choking or eye injuries, while more than one in four toys struck their targets with “too much” force.

Hampshire scientists have now alerted Trading Standards officers to the potential dangers and have encouraged parents to buy from recognised retailers.

County Council Leader, Councillor Ken Thornber said: “Some of this year’s must-have Christmas toys can be quite expensive and the temptation may be to opt for cheaper alternatives, but it’s important that parents and adults buying these toys don’t compromise on vital safety standards. Toys with small detachable parts can pose a real danger.”