LAST Christmas, panicked parents risked life and limb to get their hands on their kids' number-one toy, a modern take on a yo-yo called a Beyblade.

The tiny spinning toy cost just £4.99, but quickly became more precious than gold, selling out in stores around North Wiltshire.

This year, parents are set to feel the pressure in their purses too, with kids' top choices including a Pop Idol Karaoke machine, priced at a whopping £90.

The top toys for a Christmas list compiled by Littlewoods, with the help of a panel of young experts, shows a variety of old and new favourites. A two-in-one table tennis and air hockey table is in the top spot at £49,99, the karaoke machine is at number two, while a Baby Annabel Doll is at five and old classic Barbie, is at number six.

The success of the recent Spiderman film has put his toy vehicle in at number three in the gifts parade, while kids' TV characters the Fimbles also make the list, with the Fimble Feeling Pom at number 8.

At Woolworths in Chippenham, spokesman Daniel Himsworth said that the best-selling toy is Baby Annabel, a doll that comes with her own range of equipment.

Meanwhile the hit feature film has resulted in a huge demand for Hulk toys and even a nostalgic passion for mutant turtles.

"Baby Annabel is selling exceptionally well this year," he said.

"While, in the case of boys' toys, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle products are having a comeback, probably as the film is being re-released in cinemas soon.

"So far we haven't actually sold out of anything."

Baby Annabels have also been selling well at Hoggosaurus toy shop in Maryport Street, Devizes, along with Swan Lake Barbie and the updated My Little Pony Castle.

Popular boys' choices include old favourite Action Man and the revamped He-Man range of toys.

A spokesman said: "There hasn't been any real craze this year, unlike previous years, although the Geomag range of magnetic toys, which range from £8 to £40 have been selling extremely well.

"The Pop Idol games for the PC meanwhile, haven't been as popular as we thought they might be."

Children and adults alike go mad for music and films at Christmas and at WH Smith in Chippenham, this year's blockbusters, such as Pirates of the Caribbean, are flying out of the door. "The shop is so busy and sales have been great," said acting manager, Lin Young.

"On the music front, the compilation CDs are selling very well, but also greatest hits albums from people like Rod Stewart and Cher."

It's no surprise that the top calendar pin-ups this Christmas are still David Beckham and Kylie Minogue, but the one featuring England's World Cup winning rugby team is also selling like hotcakes.