BEING a lone parent is no easy task. It is difficult enough to raise children as part of a couple, so those parents forced to do the job alone deserve our respect and praise.

It is not our position to pass judgment on the reasons why couples split. But, it happens. And it happens more and more frequently.

Far and away the majority of lone parents are women. They face a demanding task juggling jobs and childcare and are, quite rightly, given a good deal of support by various agencies.

The plight of those fathers who are left out in the cold by the courts when couples split is well documented.

Campaign group Fathers4Justice has repeatedly brought their difficulties into the public eye.

But what about those dads who are left at home with the children? Lone parent fathers are an increasing phenomenon.

According to figures from the US, this group is growing at a faster rate than single mothers.

It would be all too easy to dwell on the negatives when faced with the problems faced by lone dads. But, let's not forget, there are plenty of positives as well.

Worcester city councillor Sam Arnold is a shining example of what a single parent can achieve.

Picked as one of 10 regional winners in a Lone Parent of the Year award, Sam also won a prize in the Worcester News Mother's Day competition.

Single parents, be they mothers or fathers, are a fact in today's society. Let's give them all the support they need.