German supermarket Edeka release heartbreaking Christmas advert to rival 'Man On The Moon' from John Lewis

Is this the most heartbreaking Christmas advert of all time?

A Christmas advert released by German supermarket Edeka is melting hearts worldwide.

Similar to John Lewis’ emotive “Man On The Moon” advert; it focuses on an elderly man alone at Christmas. But, some viewers believe it has trumped the British advert as the most powerful yet.

The advert shows an elderly man spending several Christmases alone; with his children providing a different excuse each year: "I just wanted to call and let you know that we can’t make it for Christmas this year… we’ll try again next year. It’ll work out, I promise. Merry Christmas Daddy!”

Time passes and tragically the children receive news of their father passing away. The advert shows each child wishing they spent more time with their now departed dad.

The children return to the family home to attend his funeral and pay respects; but as they enter the dining room, their father appears and says: "How else could I have brought you all together?"

Tears quickly turn to smiles as the family indulge in a Christmas dinner that has been long overdue.

Tears were wept worldwide, as documented on Twitter.

Is this the most heartbreaking Christmas advert of all time? Let us know in the comments below.