Ref. 25943-187MARRIAGE FEATURE: Claire and Paul Collins think they share 'wearing the trousers' in their relationship and both agree the image of the housewife doing all the work is ridiculous.

The couple, from Abbey Meads, tied the knot on July 12 the day before Claire, 22, was expecting her first baby.

But they enjoyed the wedding celebrations without a crying third party because the birth was delayed. Born last Thursday, Archie, has just turned their lives upside down and they are thrilled with his arrival.

Company director Paul, 30, said: "It's absolutely amazing and I'm determined to be a hands-on dad."

So far Paul has changed every nappy bar one. But there are certain areas where he cannot help.

He said: "Claire is breastfeeding so has to get up every two hours in the night. But I try to take the weight off her feet in other ways, like doing the chores and bringing her breakfast in bed."

When it comes to shopping, Paul also knows his place. He said: "Taking her shopping is not optional, it's obligatory. With all the sleepless nights ahead, it's the least I can do."

When Paul returns to work next week, Claire has chosen to stay at home and look after Archie. She gave up her job as a nursery worker in February and has no regrets.

"We talked it over and decided it would be best for me to be a full-time mum. During my pregnancy, I missed work a bit. But now all my thoughts are with Archie and my hands are more than full," she said.

"I can't stand mess and clutter. Men don't seem to notice it and would gladly live in a pigsty. If there are socks lying on the floor, I'll pick them up because it's quicker."

Besides cleaning, Claire also prefers to do the cooking. She said: "I'm a vegetarian and although Paul likes meat, he eats what I put in front of him. If I let him loose in the kitchen it creates more mess."

And as for waiting on Paul hand and foot . . ."If he wants a hot or cold drink, he knows where the tap is. If he wants to boss me about, he knows where the door is," she said.