This afternoon we have been contacted by Tim Fairs by phone who said that he was ‘Deeply apologetic, most pained and aggrieved that he upset fathers in general.

This was followed by the email below

Dear ……….

Thanks for your time on the phone this week. As both Tim and I have explained, we issued a story a couple of weeks ago that was all about celebrating the crucial role that dads play in kids’ upbringing. At the same time, Clintons stores throughout the UK are emblazoned with messages encouraging a celebration of dads.

There are dozens of cards in store, some of them wry and humorous, some of them with a different voice, all of them supportive of the role of dads. Our external communications are equally varied. A story from Clintons today, for example, highlights a reverse wish that Clintons have funded to enable a seriously ill boy…