(MENAFN- SWNS Digital) Martine McCutcheon has re-visited one of her most iconic movies – by reuniting loved ones at an airport.

The Love Actually star joined a special welcoming committee at London's Stansted Airport.

Dressed in a cosy jumper and maroon jacket, she witnessed reunions as friends and family arrived from across the globe.

She handed out warm festive drinks and was flanked by a gospel choir performing uplifting carols in the arrivals hall adding to the magic.

The heartwarming initiative was created by Costa Coffee [] to bring festive cheer to those catching up and to celebrate the moments of connection during the holiday season.

The brand commissioned research of 5,000 adults who celebrate Christmas and found nearly half (47 per cent) said spending time with loved ones boosts their seasonal spirit.

While almost nine in 10 (86 per cent) agreed the holidays are a perfect opportunity to catch up with those they care about most.

Speaking on the moment, Martine McCutcheon said: "I've loved spreading a little festive cheer today.

“Watching people light up the moment they see someone they've missed is truly magical.

“There's a real sense of anticipation and gratitude in those first reunions that feels so unique to this time of year.

“It's been a joy to witness those memories being made right in front of us."

The research also highlighted favourite Christmas rituals for catching up with loved ones, including winter walks (39 per cent), meeting in coffee shops (27 per cent) and watching festive films (40 per cent).

With classics like Home Alone (44 per cent), Elf (30 per cent), and Love Actually (24 per cent) forming part of annual traditions people watch without fail.

Almost half (49 per cent) travel to see loved ones, covering an average of 164 miles, with 82 per cent going by car, while others take trains (23 per cent) or fly (14 per cent).

Festive playlists are thought of as the perfect travel buddy for 45 per cent, with 39 per cent saying they would look to journey with a hot drink in tow.

Other food and drink to put people in the Christmas spirit are mince pies (43 per cent), mulled wine (26 per cent) and seasonal hot drinks (23 per cent).

Overall, more than six in 10 (61 per cent) of those polled via OnePoll agreed Christmas is more about connection than celebration.

A Costa Coffee spokesperson added:“The joy of the season is in those first moments of reunion, when the people we've missed most finally come together.

“Whether it's a shared smile at arrivals or a quiet coffee together, these connections create lasting memories.

“Being there to support these moments, and the holiday rituals that come with them, however big or small, is what makes this time of year so special.”

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