Concerned parents have contacted the Medway Messenger after toxic toys were found on sale on Gillingham.

The fruit-head dolls were recalled across Europe in January, because they contain the dangerous chemical DEHP.

The substance, which is used to soften plastics, can cause cancer, deformities in unborn babies and infertility in men.

Cllr Mike O’Brien, who was in charge of community safety, last week advised parents to take the toys away from their children.

"It is quite frightening to know that it can cause cancer.”

One mum who got in touch with us, Michelle Rossiter, said she felt more advice should have been given about the risks.

Michelle’s daughter Darcy, aged five, was given one of the dolls last year.

Michelle, of Carnation Road, Strood, said: “My parents brought it for her while we were on holiday in Spain.

"I usually wouldn’t buy something like that for her, I always make sure she has decent stuff but she fell in love with it and my parents like to spoil her.

“I read about the recall online and I took the doll off her straight away. I was immediately worried. Darcy played with the doll quite a lot when she first got it. I don’t know whether to take her to see the doctor.

"It is quite frightening to know that it can cause cancer.”

Kelsey Atkins also read about the recall on our website.

Cllr O’Brien said: “I would ask anyone who has bought one of these toys to take it away from their child and notify the Trading Standards service.She said: “Obviously I’m worried, as she’s been putting it in her mouth and everything, so I don’t really know what to do, or whether to go to the doctors with her.”

"Additionally, I would urge any shopkeepers who still have the products to return them to their suppliers.”

He added: “If parents do have concerns about their child, they should see their GP.”

The shop selling the dolls potentially faces offences under the Toys Safety Regulations, with a fine up to £5,000 and a six-month jail term.

Medway Council has refused to reveal the identity of the store because it is under investigation. A spokesman said no other shops have been found selling the dolls.

• For more advice, contact the national consumer helpline on 08454 04 05 06 or contact Medway Trading Standards on 01634 333555.