By VIVIENNE NICOLL

SHOPPERS looking to buy one of the world's top selling toys have been warned to watch out for fakes in Glasgow.

Trading standards officers in the city have seized a number of L.O.L dolls following reports of counterfeits being offered for sale online and in high street stores.

The toys are the number one collectable doll in America and a top seller around the world.

Neil Coltart, the city council's trading standards group manager, said: "We are following up all reports and have already seized a number of counterfeit dolls.

"In the run up to Christmas, it is advisable to shop around and check the best value for money the same way you would on the high street.

"Most people who are not so familiar with the genuine product or what it costs can be easily fooled into thinking they are getting a bargain. So if something looks too good to be true then it probably is."

There was no information on where the dolls were seized from.

Genuine products should clearly say MGA Entertainment Inc. or MGA on the outside packaging.

Legitimate products are called L.O.L. Suprise and not L.Q.L or any other name.

The genuine manufacturer warns shoppers to be cautious of unfamiliar sellers based outside the UK and to only purchase from trusted retailers and websites.

If in doubt, compare the packaging, colours and description to authentic L.O.L Surprise products shown on https://lolsurprise.mgae.com

Anyone with concerns is asked to contact trading standards' consumer helpline on 03454 040506.