Imagine a larger-than-life, red-bearded, blue-eyed scouser - that´s the word for someone from Liverpool.

A big-hearted rescuer of those in need - Dad is always ready to spring into action. Whether at an SOS call at 3 a.m. from a 16-year-old daughter who was in danger from a motorcycle gang member three hours´ drive away - that´s a longer story than can be told here. My dad showed up complete with a hand grenade, armed and ready to take on the entire gang, if needed.

He collected me from a kind stranger’s basement.

When I was 12 years old, he brought home a hitchhiker, gave him a good meal and a safe night’s sleep, money and a packed lunch, with a ride to his next stop the next day. He was – and is – an exact judge of character. He knew it was safe to help this teen. You never know at what point you will meet someone in their life, and what they’re going through, he told me at a young age.

When I called Dad, and asked if a 15-year-old teen – who had been harmed, and was about to go into a crowded foster group home, with locks on the kitchen cupboards – I asked him if she could stay for a while with him and his wife Pauline, until I had my house ready for her. Without hesitation he said yes.

I hit the Dad jackpot. I always say to my Dad. Mike Brian Hargreaves, a person who demonstrated through kind, brave action, life’s most important lessons.

A Dad who celebrated his 90th birthday last October.