Why are we obsessed with unicorns and mermaids?

Unicorns are set to top the list of sought-after toys this Christmas. So just what is our obsession with this mythical creature, asks Suzanne Harrington

Our fascination with mythical creatures especially mermaids and unicorns — so much nicer than ogres and yetis — began in ancient times and shows no sign of letting up. The unicorn is particularly ubiquitous. They are for the first time predicted to dominate the list of most sought after toys for 2018.