Viewers In Tears Over Alternative John Lewis Christmas Ad About Man And His Dog

An alternative to the John Lewis Christmas advert that tells the heart-breaking story of a man and his dog has left viewers in tears.

Released on YouTube and made on a shoestring, the homemade ad has clocked up over a million views, with viewers saying it left them struggling to contain their emotions.

You can watch the moving clip in full here:

The video, created by YouTuber Samuel Clegg - who also sings the backing track - tells the story of an older man who lives with his best buddy, staffie Bruno.

We see the pair enjoying their advent calendars in front of a crackling fire, sitting down to festive meals together, and generally being the best of friends.

But when a frosty winter walk sees Bruno go missing, his owner is left devastated, and sets about searching for his beloved pet. Be warned: the ending is pretty devastating.

Sam Clegg / YouTube)

Highlighting the important bonds between humans and their pets, Sam has dedicated the touching ad and its backing song to "everyone who has faced hardships in 2020."

All money raised from the ad's soundtrack, Don't Let Me Go, available via iTunes and Amazon for £0.79p, will go to charity, raising vital funds for the elderly this Christmas.

Sam Clegg / YouTube)

Sam continued: "This Christmas advert concept for John Lewis was filmed to show the bond between humans and dogs.

"Many elderly people rely on their animal family for their wellbeing.

"This is why with every £0.79p purchase of our song "Don't Let Me Go", 100% of the money will be donated to charity."

Filmed using an old camera, and starring Sam's real-life dad and family dog, the advert has left viewers in bits.

One emotional YouTuber wrote: "I'm literally in tears this makes you realise how lucky we are to have such beautiful bonds with animals."

Sam Clegg / YouTube)

Another commented: "Awww my god this has me in tears right now. The love between him and his beautiful dog."

While a third chimed in: "My dog passed away a few months ago this hit home and had me crying but such an amazing message!"

We're reaching for the tissues ourselves! To purchase the advert's title track, Don't Let Me Go, and raise vital funds for the elderly over Christmas, head to iTunes or Amazon.

Topics: John Lewis, Christmas, Dog, TV and Film, TV News, TV Entertainment, YouTube

Mary-Jane Wiltsher

Mary-Jane Wiltsher is a freelance lifestyle and culture journalist. Elsewhere she writes for Stylist, Euronews, PHOENIX and What We Seee.