A SPOOF video by Malvern’s very own police officers imitating this year’s John Lewis Christmas advert has taken the internet by storm.
The two minute short has been viewed more than 100,000 times across social media so far.
It stars Peeler the West Mercia Police force mascot in place of Monty the Penguin in the original ad, alongside PCSO Kevin Tudge who also provides his own rendition of John Lennon’s Real Love for the soundtrack.
Eagle-eyed watchers will notice that the heartwarming video is played out in front of several well-known Malvern backdrops including Priory Park and Great Malvern railway station.
PC Dave Wise, who directed the spoof, said the idea came to him while watching the original John Lewis advert and thinking the police had the perfect mascot for the job in Peeler.
“We try to be as innovative and creative with our use of social media in Malvern as we can and this was just another chance to do something different and show our approachable human side,” he said.
“We also think the video delivers a simple but important policing message, to look after one another this Christmas.
“We’ve had a fantastic reaction, over 100k views across social media at the last count and it continues to rise.
“Everywhere we go people ask us about the video and most people seem to think it is better than the original.
“It’s turned Peeler the dog and PCSO Kev Tudge into internet stars.”
PC Wise stressed the video was made outside of work hours and all costs came out of officers’ own pockets.
“It was just a bit of fun and a way of saying Merry Christmas to Malvern Hills residents.” he added.
Click on the below link to see the video.
