Father’s Day will be celebrated early today with a special salute to the island’s dads.

“We Love You Dad”, hosted by Gina Spence Productions, has grown in its three years, as attested by the latest haul of tributes sent in to fathers.

“I don’t believe that men see themselves the way their children see them,” Ms Spence told The Royal Gazette.

“This year we got our highest amount of submissions. The stories were touching, to biological fathers, stepfathers or adopted fathers. Based on the writings we received, their children have not taken their eye off them; they see great role models and they love them dearly.”

The celebration opens with a proclamation from the steps of City Hall at 5.30pm, by Sylvan Richards, the Minister of Social Development and Sports.

Mayor Charles Gosling and Ed Christopher, the town crier, will take part, with speeches on fatherhood from Clyde Best, Ronnie Lopes, Pastor Damon Hendrickson and Ruben Waldron. Every year, organisations that help develop young men are chosen for awards: this year’s are Controversy Boxing and Fitness Gym, Bermuda Sea Cadets Corps, Bermuda Scout Association and the First Bermuda Boys Brigade Company. There is also the difficult task of choosing the father of the year, narrowed to six candidates — from which a top dad will be chosen. Attendees are invited to donate to the Champions Programme for children who have lost their fathers to violence, plus a tribute box for the community to offer their appreciations to fathers who have passed away.