The toymakers behind Barbie have created a new doll inspired by the Loch Ness Monster.
Lorna McNessie is a tartan-clad redhead from “Rotland”, described as the 14-year-old daughter of the mysterious creature.
The doll is an addition Mattel’s Monster High collection which includes a range of characters such as zombies, ghosts and werewolves.
The character’s favourite food is Haggis and her makers claim she “always wanted a dry land pet like a Highland cow”.
The Monster High website explains: “Being a ghoul from the Highlands, I’d be doing a disservice tae ma clan if I didna wear ma plaid, and since it can also get shivering Baltic in Rotland I also like tae wear wool skirts and scarfs tae keep the cold at bay.”
Graeme Ambrose, of Loch Ness Bid, which promotes the loch and its surrounding area, said he hoped it would persuade parents to take their children to the area.
He said: “It’s another example of the draw and pulling power the Loch Ness monster has.
“It keeps the name of Loch Ness and the Highlands in the forefront of people’s awareness.
“It will have plenty kids begging their parents to take them to Loch Ness so it will be good for the area.
“The monster is shrouded in mystery and perhaps slightly scary in a nice way for children.”
Mattel has also made an animation clip featuring the tartan-clad doll.
The short film shows her having to leave Rotland for Monster High to avoid publicity.