John Lewis has unveiled a giant snoring monster named Moz as the star of its Christmas advert this year.

The latest offering from the high street chain (above) tells the story of a little boy named Joe who forms a friendship with an imaginary monster living under his bed.

It also features a cover of The Beatles hit ‘Golden Slumbers’ by Elbow.

Night after night, the pair play together as Moz tries to allay Joe’s fears of the dark.

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But their antics start to take their toll on the seven-year-old as he struggles to stay awake during the day.

Seeing how it is affecting his friend, the 7ft creature gets the boy a night light for Christmas so he can sleep soundly.

The pair wave an emotional goodbye before Joe turns on his gift and looks under his bed to see Moz has disappeared.

And as the ad closes, the light is switched off and the familiar rumblings of Moz are heard, suggesting he is still around.

John Lewis customer director Craig Inglis said: “This year’s Christmas campaign brings to life the power of children’s imaginations and the joy of great friendships. Moz and Joe’s story is magical and heartwarming and I’m sure it will be loved by all of our customers, young and old.”

Oscar-winning Michel Gondry, whose past work includes Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, directed the two-minute ad.

“When I told my ex-girlfriend I was doing the next John Lewis Christmas film she said: ‘You have big shoes to fill, this John Lewis commercial must make people cry, don’t forget’,” he said.

“Last week I showed it to her and she cried. Phew.”

The ad will premiere on Channel 4 this evening at around 9.30pm, and at the same time on all of Sky’s channels.

Some of the proceeds of the sale of Moz cuddly toys and mugs will be donated to the Barnardo’s children’s charity.

Previous John Lewis Christmas commercials have included Buster the bouncing boxer, a man on the moon, and Monty the penguin.