YOUNGSTERS under eight should not be given mini-scooters this Christmas, according to Worcestershire's Trading Standards officers.

The toys are likely to become one of the year's most popular Christmas gifts.

But Trading Standards has advised parents to consider supervising their children if the youngsters find the machines awkward to control.

"All micro-scooter users should wear protective equipment: helmets, gloves, knee and elbow protectors to avoid injuries," officers said.

"They shouldn't use their scooter to perform stunts unless it's specifically designed for this. Micro-scooters should be aware of both pedestrians and vehicles and should never use their scooters on uneven surfaces."

Officers advise not letting children under eight on mini-scooters and say parents ought to heed assembly and folding instructions, to ensure fingers are not trapped within the scooters' parts.