My Dad’s better than your dad.
Those conversations were often heard on the playground when I was growing up, the difference between me and every other child was that I knew with absolute certainty that my Dad was the best.
An early memory is going to The Albany with Dad while he was working. He asked me “If you could have anything in the world right now, what would it be”?
Obviously I wanted a swing...but we were indoors in a big empty hall, with nothing but a small stage at one end, so that wouldn’t be possible.
Except it was. Dad collected some rope and an enormous sofa cushion, which he rigged up above the stage, and in no time I was swinging out over the edge of the stage on the BIGGEST, most comfortable swing you could imagine.
This may have been the first time I was aware that my Dad could do anything, and that feeling never left me.
Although Dad & my mum split when Steve & I were very young, Dad was always there when we needed him. I used to long for every other weekend that we’d stay with Dad, Viv & Pam (and then little Danny/Daniel if I was cross with him), these weekends were filled with trips out, love and laughter.
Dad would always read us a bedtime story, a favourite of his being ‘The Hobbit’. I’m sure I would drift off within a minute or two, due to Dad’s soothing voice (and probably being too young to understand what on earth was happening in the story).
On alternate weekends Dad would take a walk to the phonebox to call us, always keen to find out what we’d been up to. Those calls always ended with Dad telling us “love you millions”.

Dad was so excited when he found out his first grandchild was on the way, and from the moment Laura was born he became the proudest grandparent, always keen for cuddles and chats with his “little lady”. Joe and Cai were equally loved and cherished as his brood of grandchildren grew.
Laura, Joe and Cai hit the jackpot having Dad for a grandparent. Dad was ready to let them have a go at anything, and as a grandparent didn't have to play by any of the rules (what health & safety?) More than once I went into the garden to find one of my children halfway up a ladder, or sitting on the shed roof swinging their little legs over the edge. And on a hot day who needs a paddling pool? Just fill a dustbin with water and dunk them in!
Throughout my childhood, growing up, becoming an adult & having my own family, Dad has been my constant support and supporter. Always ready with an endless supply of love, advice and encouragement.
Over the years we have shared love, laughter, tears and happiness, but whatever the occasion, time spent with my Dad was always special.
I will treasure my memories forever. Thank you Dad, love you millions. xx