Poundworld, based in the Manor Walks shopping centre, was twice caught selling a Robin Hood toy archery set that Trading Standards officers discovered to be dangerous.

Prosecutor Paul Dunn told South East Northumberland Magistrates' Court that on August, 20, 2007, officers bought the toy which failed basic strength tests.

Mr Dunn said the toy failed the tests because the suckers on the plastic arrows came off easily, therefore presenting a choking hazard, and the sharp tips of the arrows were left exposed.

Despite receiving notification from Trading Standards about the safety of the Robin Hood set, officers found the toy on sale during a second visit in November 2007.

"The product recall wasn't issued until February 2008," Mr Dunn told the court.

In defence of the company, Robert Brackup said: "We have to accept that we were not particularly quick off the mark but we are a responsible company.

"The company imports more than 4,000 product lines from China which are made to comply with the necessary legislation."

Poundworld has a £28m annual turnover and the Robin Hood set, which cost 52p to produce, retailed for £1.

"Retailers are in a very difficult position because one particular batch, out of thousands, might well comply with the legislation and the next might not be so good," Mr Brackup said.

Magistrates fined Poundworld £3,000, ordered the company to pay £2,236 costs and a surcharge of £15.

Following the court hearing, fair trading officer Dave Johnson said: "We're pleased with the result, but what's more important than the size of the fine is that the bench recognised it's important to control the sale of toys.

"They have shown a commitment to protecting the population of Northumberland."