Gateshead-based LD Europe Ltd, which trades as Lovedoll UK, was letting customers have “first hand experience” of the dolls in a bedroom on its premises.

However, this practice requires a sex establishment licence.

Owner Graeme Tulip was fined £10,000 at Gateshead Magistrates’ Court, though neither he nor his lawyer attended.

The dolls cost up to £2,000, with the try first option coming in at £50.