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KEVIN THE CARROT TEAMS UP WITH MARCUS RASHFORD MBE FOR CHRISTMAS AD CAMPAIGN

• England striker provides voice for Marcus RADISHFORD alongside icon Kevin the Carrot and new nemesis Ebanana Scrooge in Aldi’s magical animated Dickensian-style TV Ad
• The supermarket’s campaign will provide 1.8 MILLION meals to families in need over the festive period
• ‘‘A Christmas Carrot’ TV ad premieres 19.15 Thursday 11^th November on ITV during centre break of Emmerdale

England footballer Marcus Rashford MBE has joined forces with supermarket giant Aldi for its Christmas TV ad – as part of a seasonal campaign which will see 1.8 million meals donated to families that need help across the UK over the festive period.

The ad, which premieres on Thursday 11^th November, is a charming Dickensian-style take on A Christmas Carol, and follows the story of Christmas loathing Ebanana Scrooge, who is reminded of the joys of the festive season by Kevin the Carrot who returns to screens once again this year, despite rumours to the contrary.  There was public outcry when a teaser video featuring only Ebanana Scrooge appeared on social media over the weekend, leaving fans fearing for the fate of the nation’s favourite carrot.

The animated Yuletide story introduces viewers to a medley of fruit and vegetable characters – including Marcus Radishford, which is voiced by the England striker, Marcus Rashford, as well as Tiny Tom, Peas and Goodwill and Kevin’s Dickensian family.

Marcus, 24, who has told of his own impoverished childhood in Wythenshawe, Manchester, has waged a high-profile campaign over the past 18 months to increase the support available to vulnerable children.

Marcus Rashford MBE, said: “As a family, we relied on the local food bank to get our Christmas dinner. To this day, I remember queuing outside that building with mum; mum feeling embarrassed that she might be recognised. It is with that in mind that I’m delighted to lend my support to the Aldi campaign.

“For many children in situations like mine growing up, there is very little expectation around this time of year; add the impact of the pandemic and the very least they deserve is a Christmas dinner.”

Aldi currently works with Neighbourly – who link businesses to charitable organisations in local communities – to donate its surplus food to local causes.

Neighbourly CEO, Steve Butterworth, comments: “We’re delighted to be supporting Aldi in their year-round food redistribution programme and in their commitment to donate 1.8 million meals this Christmas. These donations will help a record number of families across the UK during what is expected to be the busiest year on record for local charities and causes.”

This is the sixth successive year that Aldi’s Christmas ad campaign has featured Kevin the Carrot, with last year’s ad campaign racking up over 5 million views online.

Sean McGinty, Marketing Director at Aldi UK, said: “Christmas is a time for hope, and we’re privileged to be working with Marcus, who is one of the most inspirational young people in the UK, having done so much in the past 18 months to help provide free school meals for children.

“At the same time, it wouldn’t be the festive season without Kevin the Carrot on our TV screens, and we’re thrilled to be bringing him back for the sixth year for his many fans, in what we think is his best Yuletide performance yet.

“We hope our campaign will remind everyone of the true meaning of Christmas.”

-ENDS-

For further information please contact the Aldi press team on: alditeam@clarioncomms.co.uk

020 7479 0910

www.facebook.com/AldiUK

www.twitter.com/AldiUK

www.instagram.com/AldiUk