From heart-wrenching tributes to viral fame and record-breaking feats, this Father’s Day we’re looking back at the inspiring, emotional, and often uplifting stories of the incredible dads we’ve spoken to over the past year.
Each of them, in their own way, shows the strength, love, and dedication that defines fatherhood.
TikTok stardom for Dartford dad and daughter duo
From tragedy to joy, Dartford dad Jed Storey and his daughter Chloe have been lighting up screens on TikTok with their heartwarming and hilarious videos.
The duo’s account, @dadandcloshow, has gained nearly 200,000 followers thanks to their brilliant bond and fun content.
Jed told us: “We never expected it to take off so quickly… it’s been an amazing way to connect.”
A chicken-shaped walk for a local legend
In one of our quirkiest stories, Stephen Sangster, a dad from Orpington, walked over 11km in the shape of a chicken to celebrate the 130th anniversary of the Orpington Buff breed.
“It was an eggs-ercise in both fitness and creativity,” he joked, proving that even poultry-themed passion projects can be powered by pride, community, and a sense of humour.
A father’s grief turned into a call for change
One of the most emotional stories came from Bora Bicakcim, the father of nine-year-old Ada, who tragically died after being hit by a bus in Bexleyheath.
In the face of unimaginable pain, Bora shared his heartbreak with the News Shopper, describing the moment his world “fractured beyond repair”.
He told us: “This tragedy happened on my watch, a father’s ultimate failure… We will honour your name with acts of magnitude. You will never be forgotten.”
Bora has since turned his grief into purpose, vowing to fight for change and raise awareness about the dangers of drug-driving.
We think of Bora on his first Father’s Day without Ada.
Beckenham dad goes the distance for a friend’s daughter
When Sam Wheeler from Beckenham heard his friend’s daughter had been diagnosed with leukaemia, he didn’t hesitate.
The devoted dad will cycle more than 400km to Cornwall this August to raise money for Momentum Children’s Charity – the same charity that’s been supporting little Isla and her family since her diagnosis.
Sam said the diagnosis came just a day after Isla had been at his house. Now, he’s turning heartbreak into action.
500 miles across London – on foot
Dave Thomas, a 64-year-old dad and retired NHS worker, took on a monumental challenge – running the entire London transport network.
That’s 12 Tube lines, the Overground, trams, DLR, and even the cable car – clocking up nearly 500 miles in just four months.
Armed with selfies from every station and support from TfL, Dave is now waiting to hear if Guinness World Records will confirm his achievement.
35 years of community cuts and connections
And finally, a special mention goes to Graham Norman, who has run The Crop Shop in Erith for 35 years with his wife Sharon and their five children.
More than just a barber, Graham has been part of the local fabric since 1990 – cutting hair, making friends, and raising a family while keeping Erith looking sharp.
Graham said: “It’s not just a barbers – it’s part of the community. We’ve had generations of families come through the door.”
Happy Father’s Day from all of us at the News Shopper.
