A TV advert encouraging people to "sing their hearts out for the lad" gets its first airing today as part of a campaign to encourage people to attend their local church carol services. More than 150 churches of all denominations across Greater Manchester are taking part in the "Campaign for Real Christmas", inviting people to attend the annual event.

The TV adverts are part of a £200,000 promotion which also includes radio and billboard adverts and feature famous names such as Manchester City boss Kevin Keegan, athlete Diane Modhal and TV gardener Jeff Turner. The first advert will be screened tonight during Emmerdale and will be followed by one tomorrow during Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?