A Kent charity boss hopes the powerful message behind the new John Lewis Christmas advert will encourage people to make a difference this festive season.

The tear-jerking Man on the Moon commercial was released today and calls on people to “show someone they’re loved this Christmas”.

It features a lonely elderly man living on the moon and tells the story of how a little girl tries to reach out to him, eventually sending him a gift.

The advert is in partnership with Age UK, supporting the charity's ‘No one should have no one at Christmas’ campaign.

Chief executive of the charity’s Canterbury branch, Neil Brown, says it highlights a very real problem in society of how many vulnerable older people are living in isolation.

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Dr Brown said: “It’s really good to see - it’s a very powerful advert.

“It tears at the heart strings and I’m pleased it will get mainstream coverage.”

Recent research Age UK has carried out shows there are more than one million older people in the country who haven’t spoken to a friend, neighbour or family member for at least a month.

In east Kent alone the charity works with 6,000 people every year.

Dr Brown said there are many ways people can help if the advert prompts them to want to do something.

Age UK runs a befriending scheme which sees a trained volunteer visit someone in need to provide companionship and there is always a need for more people to sign up.

Dr Brown says no matter how much time you can spare - it makes a difference.

He also said there are other ways to help - for example looking out for older people in your community.

If you think someone is vulnerable, see how you can help them by doing their shopping or picking up a prescription, especially in severe weather when they may be even more isolated.

“Everyone involved in the befriending scheme is DBS checked and it’s been going from strength to strength, but we are looking to build it up every year,” Dr Brown said.

“We try and reach as many vulnerable elderly people as we can to combat isolation.

“I think the advert touches the right theme of the many, many people that are vulnerable or have lost loved ones.”

If you want to help in Canterbury call 01227 452678. Click here to donate.