(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Gary Barlow almost missed the birth of his daughter because he was scouring soccer results.

The Take That star has three kids with his wife Dawn - Daniel, Emily and Daisy. He prides himself on being a good father, but admits he came close to making a grave error when Dawn was in labour with Daisy. Gary had been supporting his wife every step of the way, but was almost absent at the vital moment as he wanted to check some sports fixtures.

I nearly missed the birth of our third baby, there was this soccer match on and I went to have a look when our daughter was born... it was the third baby... he laughed.

Gary and Dawn got together when they were young, eventually marrying in 2000. Having children has enriched their lives, although it means they often struggle to find time for romance. Gary, who turns 40 tomorrow, has decided to change that by organising a special holiday for them.

In a weeks time, me and the wife are going away together on our own. There will be no kids for the first time in 11 years, he told BBC Radio 2. Im making a list of things to talk about! No, not really. Im really looking forward to it. Im taking my keyboard and laptop... no Im not! (C) Cover Media