Heathrow Airport has become an unlikely contender for best Christmas advert, with a poignant film many people are saying is better the offerings of John Lewis and Marks and Spencer.

The first, and perhaps only, airport to enter the race, has produced a genuine tearjerker starring Mr and Mrs Bear; two tatty-looking teddies flying home for Christmas via their favourite west London air transport hub.

The heartwarming ad - set to a classic Chas & Dave soundtrack - follows the befuddled-looking bears as they land at Heathrow, saunter through UK border control and struggle with baggage reclaim before being reunited with their family at the arrivals gate.

The very festive message at the heart of it all is “Coming home: the greatest gift of all”.

Cynics have pointed to the fact Heathrow is currently looking to win over hearts and minds as it battles opposition to a third runway. But much of the reaction on social media has been positive.

In previous years John Lewis has set the benchmark by which all other xmas ads must be judged, but this year it seems Heathrow may actually have overtaken the much-loved department store.

Heathrow’s Commercial Director Jonathan Coen said: “Christmas is my favourite time of year at Heathrow – the airport is abuzz with families and friends reuniting for this special time of year.