Parent/s of the Year: Rob Smart

‘DAD in a billion’ Rob Smart has been nominated for the Ray & Scott-sponsored Parent/s of the Year award.

He was put forward by daughters Phoebe and Zara, who said: ‘Our Dad is the most loving and caring Dad and thoroughly deserves to be parent of the year.

‘When Mum was diagnosed with cancer, Dad held it all together as she was really poorly with the treatment.

‘He cared for her and did his best to keep everything the same for us.

‘The impact of Mum’s diagnosis and lockdown meant we both struggled with anxiety.

‘This was a really hard time for everyone, but especially Dad.

‘Throughout it all he was amazing.

‘Whilst Mum was in Southampton or in isolation he made sure we still did fun things and shared them via video calls.

‘Dad has worked part-time so he could walk us to and from primary school every day for 11 years.

‘He cooks, cleans, does ballet buns and is our taxi-service.

‘He takes a keen interest in our hobbies, building sets and working backstage in our productions.

‘He is funny, entertaining and always makes us laugh, joining in with dance routines and mastering cartwheels.

‘Our Dad truly is an amazing parent who has faced enormous struggles but always ensured we felt safe, protected and immensely loved.

‘He really is a Dad in a billion.’