AN experimental course to help fathers cope with the stresses and strains of looking after a child has seen all those taking part complete the 14-week programme.

Stirling Council's Mellow Dads programme is part of a scheme to test the first parenting course aimed at improving relationships between fathers and their young children in Scotland.

The 100 per cent completion rate compares favourably with similar parenting schemes which tend to have a drop out rate of around 40 per cent.

Attending a day a week, fathers can explore the challenges and responsibilities of what it is to be a parent and look at how small changes to their own behaviours can make them better dads.

Christopher Perkins, from Throsk, attended with his five-year-old daughter Toni Louise."Most of the contact I have with other parents is with mums at nursery or at play areas," he said. "I never really had the chance to find out from the experiences of other dads - that's why I was interested in getting involved.

"It's really given me more confidence in my relationship with my daughter. After hearing from other dads, I know now that everyone has similar problems no matter where they are from."

Council leader Johanna Boyd said "This is a real groundbreaking programme giving dads who might have been having some issues dealing with being a new parent support."