Gary, 41, said winning the public vote felt "amazing", adding: "I've been waiting for it for a long time.

"My kids are really excited and I don't think they can quite believe it. Being a dad is a really important part of my life and it means a lot to have won this award."

He then shared the news with his fans on twitter, joking: "Ladies, gentlemen, lads, lassies and Peter Andre, I'm proud to tell you all that I've won 'Celebrity Dad of the year 2012' #GbArmyyourock"

The Premier Inn Celebrity Dad of the Year 2012 award rewards the celebrity dad who has impressed the nation the most by balancing a hectic public life with the demands of parenting.

Other famous faces who were in contention for the prize included soccer star David Beckham, celebrity chef Jamie Oliver and rapper Jay-Z.