Animals, babies and High School Musical products all feature highly in this year’s prediction for top-selling Christmas toys.

The Toy Retailers Association has predicted what will be the top-selling 72 toys over this festive period and said its list reflects the innovation and expertise at work in the UK toy industry.

Gary Grant, chairman of the TRA and managing director of toy retailer The Entertainer, said: “From clever new twists on old favourites to ingenious use of new technologies, this selection strikes the balance between familiar brands and the new kids on the block.

“It has been a challenging year for all businesses, but as a retailer I am delighted to see innovation continuing to come through. Even in an economic downturn, children still need exciting, good value toys to entertain and inspire their creativity,” he says.

The ‘Dream Dozen’ toys in alphabetical order:

  • Baby born with Magic Potty, Zapf Creation (RRP£34.99)

  • Bakugan Starter Pack, Spinmaster (RRP£12.99)

  • Ben 10 Deluxe Omnitrix, Bandai (RRP£15.99)

  • Catcha Beast, Bandai (RRP£19.99)

  • Cupcake Maker, Character Options (RRP£29.99)

  • Elmo Live, Mattel (RRP£59.99)

  • FurReal Biscuit, My Lovin’ Pup, Hasbro (RRP£149.99)

  • High School Musical 3 Musical Dance Mat, Vivid Imaginations (RRP£22.99)

  • In The Night Garden Upsy Daisy and Her Chase and Play Bed, Hasbro (RRP£34.99)

  • My Life, Flair Leisure Products (RRP£49.99)

  • Rescue Pals Swim To Me Puppy, MGA Entertainment Ltd (RRP£29.99)

  • Star Wars Clone Trooper Voice Changer, Hasbro (RRP£29.99)