A stall at a popular market has come under fire after controversial golly dolls were put on sale.

Now Medway council's Labour leader has made an official complaint after dolls named Rasta Golly and Hand Knitted Golly were traded at a Christmas festival.

The toy, popular up to the 1970s, was seen at the market in the Rochester Castle Gardens as part of the Dickensian Christmas Festival at the weekend, along with other knitted toys.

But the stuffed rag doll - associated by some with racism - was condemned as an item associated with a family event.

A picture of the black doll was posted on Twitter by one festival-goer. It was retweeted by newly-elected Ukip MP Mark Reckless.

“Whoever is selling these needs to think very hard about the message they are sending out” - Vince Maple, Labour leader

Medway’s Labour leader Vince Maple, organiser of the Love Music Hate Racism festival, said: “This is particularly disappointing given our recent unwelcome visitors to Rochester during the by election.

“Whoever is selling these needs to think very hard about the message they are sending out.”

Mr Maple made a formal complaint to Medway council about the dolls.

He wrote: "It has come to my attention that inappropriate toys have been sold on a stall during this weekend's Dickens Festival

"Named toys include "Rasta Golly" "Mini Rasta Golly" and "Hand Knitted Golly".

"I am sure this is not something the council would approve of, the history of these toys is well-documented.

"Although it is now too late to make a change for this weekend, could I ask to ensure that no such items are sold at council run events in the future."

Festival manager Verne Sanderson said: “The doll is one of a variety of traditional toys on sale.”

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