Waitrose has revealed a moving Christmas campaign, which tells the real-life story of a migrating robin flying back to the UK.

The advert shows the robin begin his journey in Scandinavia, flying over mountains and lakes, fleeing predators and getting caught in a storm.

The bird then reaches the same British garden he returns to every year, to reunite with his mate and enjoy a mince pie, left by the girl who lives there.

Waitrose's 2016 Christmas campaign

The advert has clearly taken a leaf from sister retailer’s John Lewis’s book. It is made by adam&eveDDB, best known for making a slew of commercials for the department store.

It is a departure form 2015’s advert, which featured brand ambassador Heston Blumenthal and jazz classic Everybody Eats When They Come To My House.

Waitrose marketing director Rupert Thomas said: “Coming home is a central theme at Christmas when welcoming, hosting and providing a special meal for loved ones is at the heart of celebrations.

”It’s a story of love, courage and the importance of enjoyment with family and friends.”

As with John Lewis, there will be “various robin-related products” in stores, such as kitchenware, clothing, toys and wrapping paper and a game, which allows social media users to experience the robin’s journey home.

A book, telling the story of the robin’s journey, is due in stores from today.