A pizza chain has helped reunite a former Richmond resident with his family this Christmas, after flying him home from Australia as part of a festive campaign celebrating togetherness.

Max, who grew up in Richmond and now lives in Melbourne, was surprised with a trip home after both of his parents independently nominated him for PizzaExpress's nationwide competition to bring loved ones back to the UK for Christmas.

The pizzeria brand, which was founded in 1965, said the campaign was about giving the "gift of presence" at a time of year when family connections matter most.

Max had not returned to the UK for Christmas in five years and has strong links to PizzaExpress in Richmond, where he regularly visited growing up and even held a children's pizza-making party at the restaurant.

The surprise was revealed during what his family believed was a pre-Christmas dinner.

Disguised as a waiter in PizzaExpress's signature black and white stripes, Max served his mum Imogen an order of Hot Honey Dough Balls before revealing himself.

Speaking afterwards, Max said: "It feels completely surreal to be here at PizzaExpress in London.

"When I first found out I was shortlisted, my dad and I laughed and never expected to actually win.

"It didn't feel real until I arrived in Richmond and put on the famous striped top.

"It means a lot to my family to be together for Christmas. It's something we haven't been able to do in years, so it's really special."

His parents, Imogen and Peter, said PizzaExpress has long been a family favourite. "We are PizzaExpress' number one family of fans," they said.

"Whenever Max comes home, it's always first on his list to enjoy a Sloppy Giuseppe. Being able to do that together this Christmas after five years is incredibly special."

They added that both were born in 1965, the same year PizzaExpress was founded, making the reunion feel "very full circle".

PizzaExpress's festive menu is available until Monday, 5 January and includes Dough Balls in Blankets, Snowball Dough Balls and a range of seasonal Romana pizzas, making it a popular spot for festive catch-ups and reunions.

Find out more about PizzaExpress via its website here.

READ MORE: Richmond Council warns of £29m funding gap despite Government protections.

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