Hatchimals are the most sought-after Christmas toy for children this year, with frantic parents going to great lengths to try and get their hands on one in time for the big day. But what are they, and more importantly, where can you find one?
Hatchimals have become the 'must have' Christmas toy for children across the country
Hatchimals, which retail at £59.99, are like a sophisticated hybrid of a Ferbie and Tamagotchi. Sold in an interactive egg, the Hatchimal will only hatch once it has been played with enough by its owner. Once free from the egg, the Hatchimal can then be raised through three stages; baby, toddler and child. Children will then be able to teach their Hatchimal to walk, talk and sing, with the creature even singing 'Hatchy Birthday' once it has completed each life stage.
Hatchimals are sold inside an interactive egg, and can be raised by their owner in three life stages
Retailers have now announced that more Hatchimals will soon be hitting their shelves, meaning some lucky children will still be able to open and hatch their new toy on Christmas morning.
Toys R Us are expecting to stock more Hatchimals by the end of the month, while toy store Smyths has allowed customers to pre-order the toy, with limited stock being sold between November 24 and December 1.
Argos have also announced that they will be stocking more Hatchimals on November 19. Those who can wait until December might also be able to pick up a last-minute Hatchimal at The Entertainer, with the store announcing on their website that new stock will come next month, with no pre-orders available.
All the popular toy shops have been under pressure to get new stock in time for Christmas
A spokesperson from manufacturers Spin Master UK Ltd said: "We recognise it may be difficult finding this in-demand toy. More inventory will be hitting retail shelves throughout November but we anticipate this inventory will sell quickly as well. Therefore, we have increased production and a whole new batch of Hatchimals will be ready to hatch in early 2017. Thank you for your understanding."