Hatchimals among the most popular toys for Christmas 2016

A soft toy which hatches out of an egg is among the group of toys predicted to be the fastest selling this Christmas - so fast in fact that many retailers have already sold out.

Hatchimals, which cost £60 each, are described as 'interactive magical creatures' inside eggs.

Youngsters are told if they care for them and love them they will hatch by themselves.

But many toy retailers are already reporting low or no stock - with parents clambering to get their hands on the popular toy which is already being sold on ebay for up to three times its retail price.

The Toy Retailers Association released its list of 12 toys it expects to be hot property this Christmas early on Wednesday morning (November 9).

Popular brands including LEGO, Shopkins and Hot Wheels all feature in the list alongside family games to play such as the popular Speak Out, in which players have to try and say different phrases while wearing a mouthpiece that won't allow them to close their mouth.

A puppy which is said to move and feel just like a real dog is also expected to be popular among parents and their offspring - allowing children to feed it, let it fall asleep in their arms during which it will breathe and snore or tickle his tummy while he makes happy puppy sounds.

Toy Retailers Top Toys for Christmas 2016:

Shopkins Chef Club Hot Spot Kitchen Flair Leisure Products £24.99

Snuggle My Dream Puppy Character Options £49.99

Nerf N-Strike Elite Hyperfire Hasbro £59.99

Speak Out Hasbro £19.99

Silly Sausage John Adams £19.99

Friends Amusement Park Roller Coaster Lego £89.99

Star Wars Rebel U-Wing Fighter Lego £69.99

Hot Wheels Ultimate Garage Mattel £89.99

Thomas & Friends Sky-High Bridge Jump Mattel £99.99

Hatchimals Spin Master Toys £59.99

Paw Patrol Air Patroller Spin Master Toys £39.99

SelfieMic Worlds Apart £19.99