Dad starts community walking group for fathers

A father has launched a fortnightly walking group to provide a support space for local dads.

Sam Watts from Burton Latimer, near Kettering in Northamptonshire, created 'Dad's Doddle' after noticing how many social opportunities were available to new mums but not dads.

The first walk took place earlier this month at Irchester Country Park, where 19 fathers attended with their children, some in buggies, others walking alongside.

Mr Watts, who has a 15-month old son, said: "Dads [can] feel a bit side-lined [and] we need to be noticed."

Just three weeks after setting up 'Dads Doddle,' more than 500 people have signed up to the group online.

The second walk, held at Wicksteed Park in Kettering, saw almost 40 dads attend and future meetups are already being planned.

Mr Watts described the group as a place where fathers can be open and feel supported.

"It's a judge-free zone. You can unwind as much as you want, and we're just there for each other," he said.

The 28-year-old father added the emotional response from other parents on social media has made the experience especially meaningful.

"Even to this day, reading [positive comments] makes me emotional.

"None of us knew each other before the group started and now we're getting on like we've known each other for years," he said.

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