Barney is a very popular American kids TV show. My son was bought this for his second birthday, he is now six and although he doesn't love Barney that much anymore, his little sister who's two does so this toy has been passed down to her. As this was bought as a gift I'm not sure how much was paid but I see that Argos are currently selling him for £9.99 or on special offer for 2 for £15.00 mix and match with other toys. I do usually think merchandise for from children's TV is over priced but this is reasonable.

The toy itself is about 30cm in height. It is a pretty good likeness to the famous dinosaur, the colours are all correct and also lovely and bright and the features are all there to make him look almost identical to his television counterpart. I am really impressed at how soft he still is, and although you could probably wash him, I haven't needed to yet as the muck just doesn't seem to stick to him.

I am very happy with the quality of this toy, the stitching is still in tact and the Velcro on his back is still sticking together well. The Velcro comes apart to change the batteries. He requires 2x AA batteries, and I have only changed them 3 or 4 times. That works out at about once a year so I think that's pretty good.

The batteries are necessary because Barney sings his 'I love you' song that is sung at the end of all his shows. To get this to work you just need to give his tummy a little squeeze. My daughter finds the right spot easily and is happy to be rewarded with one of her favourite songs. The only real downside is from a parent's point of view that the song can get a tad annoying and start to grate on you after a while. This is probably just a matter of patience, after all there are several other toys that have terrible music and ear bashing sounds, at least this is tuneful and clear and not too loud.

I am really happy with this product. Four years is a long time for a toy to be loved and played with, but my daughter has had this a few months to herself now and I can see it lasting for all the time she needs it too. Barney is recommended for age 18 months+. I think you could give it to a younger child with supervision; they probably wouldn't associate him with the programme but would enjoy the music and cuddlyness all the same. For toddlers though he is fantastic, just the right size to be held and loved and at a great price.