HERE'S a toy that is as harmless as it is delightful. The purple giggleberry is proving to be a best-seller.

Hundreds have been sold at York Hospital, bringing a smile to the face of old and young alike. Even more cheering, their popularity is raising funds for the Women's Royal Voluntary Service and the hospital.

Most toy crazes have parents pulling out both their hair and their credit cards. But at only £1, the purple giggleberry could make a painless Christmas stocking filler.

Updated: 09:18 Wednesday, November 03, 2004