Why I Love: Being an older dad

Les Dennis, comedian/actor

My daughter Eleanor is a late joy in my life – the best gift since my son Philip was born 29 years ago. Back then I was a young man in Liverpool and I was chasing a career; I wasn't able to be the doting dad I am today. It's time-consuming but it's wonderful.

We go up to Ally Pally [Alexandra Palace in north London] together to feed the ducks. And I take her to the Mini Mozart classes at Lauderdale House in Highgate. I'm usually the only father there. That might have embarrassed my younger self but now I savour the whole experience.

She's at the cruising stage, not quite walking yet. It's not good on my knees, but there you go. As my friend Barry Cryer says, later in life is a great time to have a kid, because you're up three times a night anyway.

Les Dennis stars in When We Are Married, at West Yorkshire Playhouse (0113 213 7700, www.wyp.org.uk), until 25 April.