The BBC's Lisa Holland on the reasons behind the recall

The chain says there is a danger of lead poisoning because the glazing on the mugs, given away free with the children's video Mousehunt, could come away.

There are fears thousands of the red mugs will have been bought as Christmas presents at WH Smith and John Menzies, which it also owns.

Bosses at WH Smith say anyone who has drunk out of the mugs and suffered ill effects should seek medical attention immediately.

It is the second product recall ordered by the company this Christmas. Earlier this month the firm offered their money back to shoppers who bought a pocket size copy of the Kama Sutra, after scented oil which was sold with it was found to cause a rash.

'Potential risk'

The danger of lead poisoning was pointed out to WH Smith by trading standards officers who tested some of the mugs last week.

They found glazing on some of the cups was coming off, exposing poisonous lead paint, and informed the company on Wednesday.

WH Smith spokeswoman Caroline Wentworth said: "The glazing on these mugs is inadequate and is rubbing off during use. This has exposed the paint underneath which contains lead.

"We have taken the decision to recall the mugs as a matter of urgency to protect our customers."

'Not taking chances'

She said: "We do not know what the risk from this paint is but we are not prepared to take any chances."

The mugs, which carry the movie's name Mousehunt and a picture of a mouse against a red background, were distributed along with the video - which stars comedian Lee Evans - over the last four weeks.

The cups, which are thought to have been manufactured in the UK, are still being tested but there are no reports of anyone reporting lead poisoning symptoms.

Shoppers who return the mugs to their nearest WH Smith or John Menzies will be given a £1 gift voucher.

The chain has also set up an address where they can be sent free of charge: WH Smith Retail Limited, Freepost (SCE44100), Swindon, SN3 3XS.

The company has also set up a customer helpline on 01793 695195 but it is not known if it will be manned over the Christmas holidays.