Life

Marie Louise McConville: I was hoping for an emotional hit from the Christmas telly ads but only one hit the mark

I think the McDonald's 2020 Christmas advert is by far the best this year
I think the McDonald's 2020 Christmas advert is by far the best this year I think the McDonald's 2020 Christmas advert is by far the best this year

So, the annual battle has finally begun and I have to say, so far, there's not that much competition.

Every year, excitement builds towards the end of November as we wait for the first Christmas advert to air, and watch as each of the big brands battle it out to be named best of all.

To be honest, after the year we have all had, I had thought all the stops would be pulled out for the 2020 offerings but that is not the case.

So far, we've seen ads from Tesco, John Lewis and Sainsbury's amongst others but none have pulled at my heart strings or brought a tear to my eye - which they should.

Tesco have made an effort at humour with their `There is no naughty list' theme this year but it just didn't light my festive fire.

TK Maxx also ventured down the humorous route telling the story of a farmer who gifted his goat a jumper, scarf and beret because it had had a difficult year but I just didn't think it was funny.

With so much build-up to John Lewis, I really had expected something big but again, its `Give a Little Love' effort just falls short for me.

It was all quite disappointing until I caught a glimpse of the famous Golden Arches.

The 2020 Christmas advert by McDonalds just grabbed me.

It made feel sad and happy and festive and fuzzy and thankful and reminded me to try and appreciate every moment in life because it passes so quickly.

The animated ad tells the story of a single mother who tries desperately to keep alive the magic of Christmas in her teenage son, who appears to have become too old for all the fun.

Obsessed with video games and his phone, we watch as his mum tries so hard to get through to him, through his inner child.

Finally on the way home from Christmas shopping, there is a glimmer of hope when the two share a McDonald's meal in the car.

A snowball fight then ensues between the pair outside their home before they decorate the Christmas tree together and then leave treats out for Santa and Rudolph.

Throughout the advert, Becky Hill's beautiful track Forever Young plays and it reminds us of the importance of family and making memories.

I will admit, not only did this advert bring a tear to my eye, it left me proper gurning.

After the year that it has been, I think McDonalds really nailed it with this ad as it reminds us that life is short and that you are never too old to search the skies for Santa on Christmas Eve.

We all know Christmas this year will be anything but normal but still, we should take the time to love and treasure every moment - especially during these uncertain times.

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I have to say I am really enjoying this year's I'm A Celebrity.

Ok, so it's not in sunny Australia but the castle in Wales is providing a fantastic backdrop.

So far, Shane Ritchie has had me in stitches. He just has such a great attitude and is providing some much needed support to other members of the group.

I really think he is in with a great chance of winning as well as Radio 1 star, Jordan North, who has made some brilliant viewing so far.

Keep it coming guys.

You have me hooked.

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The winners of the A Cornish Betrothal competition are Una Hegarty, from Maghera, Margaret McVeigh, from Craigavon, Bridie McErlean, from Feeny, Theresa Sheppard, from Antrim and Joe Quinn, from Downpatrick.