Latest news with #NormanAdams
The National
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Warning issued over 'dangerous' fake Labubu dolls seized in Aberdeen
The elf-like creatures from Chinese toy maker Pop Mart are the latest craze in collectibles and have gone viral on social media. The toy's popularity soared last year after K-Pop star Lisa from girl group Blackpink shared a photo of herself with one, with other celebrities like Rihanna and Dua Lipa also posing with them. However, officials in Aberdeen are warning consumers and businesses to be alert, following the seizure of 'counterfeit and potentially dangerous' versions of the toys found in shops in the city. READ MORE: Essential repairs begin on historic 600-year-old castle on Scottish island Toys seized from four premises in the Granite City were found to have loose parts, posing a choking hazard to young children. They also did not have the required safety labelling. East Ayrshire Trading Standards also issued a warning on Tuesday, saying it was 'aware of concerns of safety and counterfeiting'. (Image: Norman Adams) Trading standards manager Graeme Paton said: 'Following the discovery of counterfeit toys, we want to alert consumers and particularly parents to be extra vigilant. 'These counterfeit toys can seem like a bargain compared with trying to source the genuine toy, especially when they are a much-sought-after item, but they are potentially dangerous.' He added: 'Counterfeit toys can potentially pose significant dangers to young children such as chemical exposure and choking hazards. 'These products routinely lack proper safety testing and we encourage anyone concerned about the safety of toys they've purchased to get in touch with us via Consumer Advice Scotland.' Parents are being urged to check the toys' packaging carefully for CE or UKCA mark and the name and address of the supplier in the UK or EU to show that the product complies with safety regulations. (Image: Norman Adams) Most will have warnings and instructions to ensure their safe use. What are Labubu dolls? Labubu was created by designer Kasing Lung, and is also the name of the main character in 'The Monsters' toy series. The elf-like creatures have plastic faces that are attached to plush bodies. The doll's signature look of pointy ears, big eyes, and a mischievous grin with nine teeth has divided people on social media, with some claiming they are cute while others say they are simply a little odd.
The National
19-06-2025
- Business
- The National
Aberdeen weekend night bus services to return
Aberdeen City Council announced it has awarded First Bus a contract to provide services for five routes from the city centre on weekends from the evening of Friday, June 27, for the next three years. The reintroduction of the night bus services follows on from the successful pilot service over the 2024 festive season. All services will operate on Friday night and early Saturday morning and Saturday night and early Sunday morning only, from midnight to approximately 3.30am. READ MORE: Police Scotland urged to reject 'misogynistic' pregnancy loss guidance Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Christian Allard welcomed the news as he said it will help support businesses in the area and will give people more choice on how they will get home. He said: 'The return of the night buses will be welcomed by businesses in the city centre and are part of our Purple Flag status for city centre safety and vibrancy. 'The Aberdeen City Council move will help to support businesses by giving people another transport option for getting home.' The night bus services will be funded by bus lane enforcement revenue. The local authority said single fares will apply on the service and that people will be allowed to use both concessionary and Under 22's National Entitlement Cards on the service. (Image: Norman Adams) Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill added the service will be launched in time for the popular Tall Ship Races which is due to set sail from Saturday, July 19, to Tuesday July 22. He said: 'The night bus service over Christmas and New Year was popular. I am delighted the City Council is bringing night bus services back year-round. These services being in place in time for the Tall Ships arriving in the city is a real bonus. 'Over the Tall Ships weekend, many more people than normal are expected to be enjoying the cafes, restaurants, and pubs in the city centre. The night buses will provide safe and efficient transport for visitors to our city centre. 'I hope as many people as possible take advantage of this cost-effective and safe transport to get home.' The routes announced for the service are as follows: N1, City Centre (Alford Place) – Danestone, via Seaton; Dubford and Ashwood N17, City Centre (Union Terrace) – Inverurie, via Great Northern Road, Bucksburn & Dyce N23, City Centre (Bridge Street) – Kingswells, via Summerhill and Sheddocksley N201, City Centre (Bridge Street) – Banchory, via Mannofield; Cults; Bieldside; Milltimber; and Peterculter N18, City Centre (Bridge Street) – Cove/Charleston via Kincorth. David Adam, head of operations at First Bus Aberdeen, welcomed the new service as he said: 'We are delighted to be working with Aberdeen City Council to launch this night bus service in Aberdeen, making it easier for people to get home later in the night, while continuing to support local businesses in the city. 'It's important people have the confidence they will be able to get home safely and affordably when going to enjoy a meal, some drinks or a night out at one of the fantastic venues in the city centre. We hope the introduction of the new night bus routes will do just that.'
