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Martin Kemp is Father Christmas in festive NHS COVID vaccine booster ad

Watch: Martin Kemp become Father Christmas for NHS booster jab ad

Martin Kemp stars as Father Christmas in a new NHS advert encouraging people to get their booster jabs to protects against coronavirus this festive season.

The 60-year-old Spandau Ballet bassist and former EastEnders star can be seen wearing a padded stomach under a white thermal vest and red braces as he crosses off items on his To Do list in the fun up to Christmas.

The ad tells viewers: "This winter vaccination are the best form of protection to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.

Martin Kemp as Father Christmas in the new ad. (NHS)
Martin Kemp as Father Christmas in the new ad. (NHS)

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"So whatever you've got planned it's not too late to get vaccinated."

Santa Claus is seen booking an MOT for his sleigh, trimming his beard and getting a vaccination from a nurse before heading off with a sack full of presents.

Kemp said: “We all know the run-up to Christmas can be one of the busiest times of the year – buying presents, decorating the tree, eating mince pies with family and friends.

LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 15: Martin Kemp attends the
Martin Kemp plays Father Christmas in a new NHS COVID vaccine ad. (Getty Images for Sony Pictures)

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“I can’t stress enough how important it is to tick your COVID-19 booster or flu jab off your ‘to do’ list this festive season, among all your other preparations, to ensure that you can enjoy Christmas with your loved ones.

“It’s quick and easy and will keep us all protected as best as possible this winter. Now go book your jabs – Father Christmas said so!”

The new advert is part of the government’s campaign urging the public to get a coronavirus booster or flu jab when they are eligible.

It comes after the emergence of the Omicron variant impacted travel rules and sparked a return to compulsory mask-wearing on public transport and inside shops.

The actor and singer - who is the father of TV and radio presenter Roman Kemp - starred as gangster Steve Owen in EastEnders between 1998 and 2002.

He rose to fame as part of New Romantic Band Spandau Ballet in the 80s, alongside his brother Gary Kemp and Tony Hadley. Their hits included Gold and True.

LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 15: Martin Kemp and Roman Kemp attend the
Martin Kemp with his son Roman Kemp. (Getty Images for Sony Pictures)

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Vaccines minister Maggie Throup said: “More than 20 million people have already had their booster jab, securing the vital protection they need to enjoy Christmas safely.

“I am delighted to see Martin Kemp play his part, encouraging others to do their bit in this national mission.

“It’s never too late to get your first and second dose – I encourage everybody to come forward to protect yourself and those around you.”

Deputy lead of the NHS Vaccination Programme, Dr Nikki Kanani said: “Seeing Martin Kemp step into Santa’s shoes to encourage as many as possible to take up their lifesaving booster vaccination is pure ‘Gold’.

MILAN, ITALY - OCTOBER 23: Martin Kemp of Spandau Ballet performs on stage at Fabrique Club on October 23, 2018 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Sergione Infuso/Corbis via Getty Images)
Martin Kemp of Spandau Ballet performing in 2018. (Getty Images)

“None of us is indestructible, but by joining 17 million others in getting that vital COVID booster, you know you and your loved ones are protected this Christmas.”

Earlier this year Sir Elton John and Sir Michael Caine starred in an NHS advert encouraging people to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

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