My Dad, My Mate and Grandad The year is 2014 and quite remarkably my father will be 80 in July. After a near miss in 2009 when he nearly left the planet due to heart failure I started to think about the impact and contribution my dad has had on my life and the fact that at the age of 43 I am comfortable with myself, like myself and am happily married with a great wife and three great children. At the time I was wondering whether I might have to say a few words when he wasn't here, although I know he knows how much I appreciate what he has done for me I thought it would be nice to write a story that he could read for his 80th Birthday. At the time of starting I have about 6 months to complete this task. I'm backed by the ability to touch type, but it's going to be a tight timescale given the usual business of life, three kids, work and football Here goes....