Bristol Dad Dons Batman Suit to Protest on Southampton Bridge
A worried dad from Bristol, dressed as Batman, has taken over a busy Southampton bridge for a second day running – braving freezing temperatures to fight for his child’s safety.
Desperate Dad Vows to Stay “As Long As It Takes”
Nicki Hughes, 29, a father of three from Hartcliffe, Bristol, is staging a high-profile protest in the heart of Southampton. The former PE teacher says he won’t back down until he’s confident his two-year-old son is safe.
“I’m not just fighting to see my child,” Nicki told UKNIP. “I want to make sure he’s protected. I fear he could end up like Baby P.”
Claims of Neglect and Social Services Failings
Nicki says social services have ignored his warnings about his ex-partner, who he claims has a serious drug habit and has previously lost two children to authorities.
“I didn’t know she had an alleged serious drug habit when I met her,” he said. “She even fooled social workers by using a neighbour’s urine for drug tests. My son is very much at risk – but no one is listening.”
Nicki explained he was with his ex for 19 months, and before their son was born, social services tried to remove the baby from the family home. But the mother’s deception stalled their intervention.
Support and Police Tolerance on the Bridge
Hampshire Constabulary officers visited Nicki on day one of his protest. They explained they responded to a complaint but allowed him to continue as long as he kept his megaphone language clean.
“People have been really supportive,” he said. “Drivers honk in support, and some have even stopped for selfies. The reaction has been great.”
Nicki Hughes vows to continue his Batman crusade until he knows his son is safe and his voice has been heard.
