IMAGES: https://wetransfer.com/downloads/d45a65f26b3521a2d89248d68a88b8cd20161206090247/02fa87
VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VuHZ1T2wRII&feature=youtu.be
NEWS COPY
Three unsuspecting Brits were reunited with overseas family members after being told they’d won a competition to film a VIDEO message to send them.
The families got the surprise of a lifetime when they were reunited with their much loved family members from around the world, who they thought they wouldn’t be able to spend time with this Christmas.
After been told they’d won a competition to film a special video message for their loved one living abroad as part of the Holiday Inn Express We Know What Matters campaign, the hotel chain went a step further by flying in their family members from Perth, Australia, Pennsylvania, USA and The Netherlands, to surprise them mid-recording.
The reactions include tears, hugs and disbelief.
The families were then treated to a festive weekend in London enjoying everything from Christmas shopping in Oxford Circus, to seeing a West End Show.
Sarah Hine from Southampton was shocked when her father Chris, who moved to Perth 12 years ago, emerged at the hotel reception desk as she went to check-into her room.
She said: “This surprise has brought a little ray of sunshine into my life and I'll be forever grateful.
“Thank you so much for bringing my Dad over, you won't know how much that's meant to me. I’m just so pleased he won’t be on the other side of the world this Christmas.”
Carl Amoscato had barely seen his sister Laura in the 10 years since he’d moved to the UK from US.
He couldn’t quite believe it when she appeared as he was recording a message with his wife and two young children.
He said: “Seeing Laura and having her reunited with her niece and nephew is the best Christmas present ever.
“It’s so incredibly special to have her here in London for the holidays and I can’t wait for her to be a part of all the fun in the lead up to Christmas.”
Mike Greenup, Vice President, Brand Management, Holiday Inn Express, commented: “During the festive season we know our guests stay with us to visit loved ones, but for those with a family member abroad that's not always possible.
“That’s why we embarked on this mission to reunite families from across the globe at Holiday Inn Express - London Ealing. The moments when the families reunite are so heart-warming and emotional and remind us what Christmas time is all about.”
Holiday Inn Express captured the amazing reactions of the hotel guests – you can watch the video here.
ENDS
