Stanesby denies F4J protest will end
Jolly Stanesby spoke of his desire to continue protesting after the founder of Fathers 4 Justice (F4J) announced it would close this month.
Matt O'Connor – who started the group in 2002 – said the campaign was planned to last three years but had continued because of the demand from desperate parents.
He said it was the most profoundly difficult decision that he had ever taken.
However, Mr Stanesby – also a founder member of the organisation – moved to reassure other protesters that the group would continue into the foreseeable future.
A new organisation has now been launched called NEW Fathers 4 Justice.
"Of course we'll be sorry to see him go, but this is not the end," Mr Stanesby said.
"We will most definitely keep the organisation going for as long as there's the demand.
"At the moment there's no way it will end. We're as keen as ever and working on some campaigns for later this year."
He added: "Being a part of the organisation is a big part of everyone's lives but we intend to keep it going."
Mr O'Connor said he had taken the decision after discussions with his children and reviewing the demands of the job.
"I have been privileged to work with some truly heroic people", he said.
"I have given six years of my life to this ministry, doing service and helping other dads, mums and grandparents, but the day has now come for me to put my family first.
"I hope people will respect my decision to get back to being a father to my children, and that other visionaries will emerge to create new groups and continue this historic ministry.
"We need new blood, new ideas and new vision", he added.
tnichols@theplymouthherald.co.uk
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