New regulations on child car booster cushions have come into play earlier than expected.

The new guidelines were expected to be introduced on March 1, but have now been implemented.

The rules affect the manufacture of new booster cushions.

They mean cushions now must be designed to be used by children 22kg or more in weight or at least 125cm tall.

Laws banning car booster seats without a back rest were revealed in 2016.

Car seat with a back

The changes to the rules were delayed until this year.

It is imperative that parents make sure they know the new rules.

However, those who have bought a seat before the changes come into use will be allowed to continue to use them.

At the moment youngsters weighing as little as 15kg (2.4 stone) - normally aged around three years old - are allowed to travel in cars in a backless booster seats.

Experts warned this type of seat was unsuitable for smaller children.

They claimed the adult seat belt isn't guided across their small body in the best way, and a booster seat offers no protection for a child if a car is involved in a side-impact crash.

If you ignore the law you are liable to a fined £500 if you end up in court.

Top tips on what to look for when choosing a car seat for your child:

1. High back;

2. Head protection;

3. Shoulder protection;

4. Red guides to feed seat belt through;

5. Isofix fitting (this stops the seat 'swaying', fixing the seat to the vehicle);

6. Don't be distracted by character design/colour;

7. Avoid buying online, visit a retailer where expert advice can be given.