ABOUT 50 Southampton families enjoyed a Father's Day trip to Paultons Park at Ower.

Two coaches filled with mums, dads and tots left All Saints' Church in Millbrook for the fun-packed day, organised by Sure Start.

The government-backed project aims to improve health, education, recreation and social opportunities for children under four and their families.

Gill Bennett, deputy programme manager for Sure Start in Southampton, said: "The onus was on the dads and encouraging a family outing. Everyone had a brilliant day and came back shattered."

The day out was organised by Scott Hickman, who has recently been appointed by Sure Start to work with young dads in the Millbrook, Maybush and Redbridge areas.