2010 Press releases

Dads Remain Number One Hero for Kids

But watch out as Ben 10 and Mummy are close behind!

As families celebrate the 100th Father’s Day this weekend, Dads across the country will be elated to learn that they, and not footballers or pop stars, are the number one hero for kids aged between five and seven for the second year running. The annual UK poll by The Children’s Mutual has revealed that although Dads have topped the list of heroes, mums will be disappointed as they have fallen from the number two spot last year, to number three in 2010.

However if Dads want to top the list again next year, they can’t afford to rest on their laurels just yet. They face strong competition from fictional characters such as Ben 10, Spiderman and Hannah Montana. Interestingly, there are four new entries in the top 10 this year, with teachers coming in at number five, the ever-popular Cheryl Cole at number six and Granddad at number nine. Those to fall out of favour in 2010’s top 10 include Gabriella from High School Musical, Power Rangers, Dora the Explorer and Sporticus.”

Children's Top 10 Heroes 2010 - 2009

Tony Anderson, Marketing Director at The Children’s Mutual, said: Since last year, Dads have continued to inspire their children and have held on to the top spot to be their number one hero. Dads have beaten off stiff competition from great fictional characters such as Doctor Who and Ben 10 which is a huge achievement.“

Although Mums and Dads feature high on the separate lists of heroes for boys and girls, other entries vary greatly. Action heroes such as Batman, Spiderman and Power Rangers are all admired by boys along with footballer Steven Gerrard (interestingly the only footballer to make the top ten). Extended family is a high priority for girls with both Granddad and Grandma making into the top 10. But popular female stars reign with Hannah Montana taking top spot,followed by Cheryl Cole at number four and Gabriella from High School Musical at number six.

2010 Top 10 Boys’ and Girls’ Heroes, according to The Children’s Mutual: