Harrods recall danger teddy bears

Department store Harrods has recalled hundreds of souvenir teddy bears after tests found potentially harmful levels of formaldehyde.

Tests on the 2008 Christmas toy showed there was too much of the chemical in the bears' foot pads.

The Knightsbridge department store said the teddy bears had a higher than acceptable level of formaldehyde which could cause skin problems.

The store said prolonged contact with the footpads over a number of months could in some cases cause irritation to sensitive skin.

Harrods sent a letter to customers who bought the bears last month. The store has recalled the 8 inch Michael bear and the 13 inch Elliott bear, which cost £14.95 and £24.95.

A Harrods spokesman said: "Harrods has withdrawn some of its 2008 Christmas teddy bear range from sale as the product did not meet its strict quality and safety standards. Only 800 bears had been sold to customers before they were recalled.

"Harrods was advised that the risk associated with the level of formaldehyde is very low. However, prolonged contact with the footpads from these bears over an extended number of months could in some cases cause irritation to sensitive skin."

He added: "Customers should be assured that all of Harrods toys are rigorously tested and it is regrettable that, in this isolated case, the products were not manufactured to our high standards.

"This is a precautionary but necessary recall and a replacement bear or refund will be offered to every affected customer."

The affected teddy bears were sold between July 2 and July 26.

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