While Christmas is one of the most joyous times of years for millions of celebrators, it can also be an emotionally turbulent time for those with estranged families.
And no one is experiencing the burden of being away from his loved ones more this winter than former Hollyoaks actor Jamie Lomas.
That's because the on-screen star has spent the last six years estranged from his son Billy.
Taking to Instagram this week, the actor, 48 - famed for playing Warren Fox on the Channel 4 soap - took to social media to pay tribute to his son as the youngster celebrates his 18th birthday.
Advert
Sharing a carousel of snaps of the duo, Jamie admitted that 'not a day goes by' that he doesn't think of Billy.
"To my first born Billy. Happy 18th birthday son," he penned in the caption. "Sadly It's been 6 years since I've been able to see you."
"But there isn't a day goes by that I don't think about you and look back on our great times together."
Advert
It remains unknown why the actor hasn't seen son Billy in six years, the actor confessed that he 'hopes one day they will be reunited'.
Jamie - who is also dad to 12-year-old daughter Polly with actress ex Kym Marsh - continued: "I miss you everyday and I love you with everything I have. I hope with all my heart you get to see this and that one day we will be reunited again.
"I hope you have a wonderful birthday son and have a great time whatever you do and just know I will be thinking of you and that your family misses you.
"A big shout out to all the dads out there that are struggling because they don't get to see their kids. I feel your pain!"
Advert
Hundreds of fans then took to the comment section to issue their condolences to the television star, including his Hollyoaks co-star Gary Lucy, who wrote a 'part 2' to his statement.
He penned: "I have to write this part 2 for you Jamie… I know how much this hurts you. I pray that in some way this heart wrenching situation improves for you both sooner rather than later.
"I feel your pain brother and for what it’s worth… I Love you and appreciate you more than you will ever know…
Advert
"All you’ve done for me my brother checking in / those little texts / listening / reasoning / advising and more than anything giving me strength when I’ve faltered I’ll never forget. Be strong love you."
Topics: Parenting, Celebrity, TV And Film
Rhianna Benson