West Yorkshire icon and Queen of cruising Jane McDonald is heading back out on the seas for another cruise experience that you can be a part of.
All aboard! Brit TV personality and Wakefield-born performer Jane McDonald has released tickets for her upcoming 2026 European cruise tour with special guests.
The legendary multi-hyphenate started out as a cruise singer before making regular TV appearances on shows like Loose Women before hosting her very own travel programmes.
Now, Jane McDonald is taking to the water once more and providing you with some lovely live entertainment courtesy of some very special guests.
Making up this list of performers so far is Scottish Drag Queen Mary Mac who has appeared in an array of productions and shows including cruise liners.
Inside the cruise ship, Ambience, where Jane McDonald is hosting this huge cruise experience / Credit: Press Shots via supplied
With each ticket, you're guaranteed your very own luggage porter, spa access, entry to the Captain's cocktail party, alongside a range of fitness and wellness classes.
Even though you'll be exploring a multitude of countries during your time, you'll also be able to dip your toes into the impressive rooftop pool onboard this cruise liner.
The vessel in question which you'll be galavanting on is none other than Ambassador Cruise Line's ship, Ambience, and if the amenities above are anything to go by you're in for a treat.
You'll also be entitled to full board cuisine, a Captain's Gala Dinner and an unmissable Baked Alaska Parade, set to satisfy any sweet tooth lover.
Famous for travelling the world via an array of extraordinary liners, Jane McDonald is now letting you be a part of the magic as she hosts this week long cruise experience from 2 to 9 October next Autumn.
If you fancy cruising with TV personality and Yorkshire icon Jane McDonald you can view dates and tickets for her 'Cruise with Jane McDonald and friends' HERE.
David Hockney, one of Britain's most influential and recognisable artists, has sadly died.
Born in Bradford in 1937, David Hockney built a career spanning more than six decades and became one of the most influential figures in contemporary art.
He was best known for his vibrant paintings, from the iconic swimming pools of Los Angeles to the sweeping landscapes of Yorkshire and Normandy.
And of course you can't forget the adorable paintings of his sausage dogs Stanley and Boodgie.
This morning on Friday 12 June, it was sadly announced that David Hockney had passed away - just one month prior of his 89th birthday.
Admired by critics and the public alike, Hockney's work was exhibited around the world and attracted record-breaking prices, cementing his place as one of the defining artists of the modern era.
Most recently, his incredibly immersive exhibition 'Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away)' was a hit across the country, proving his work still resonated with the people of today.
His work at Salts Mill has remained in exhibit for years, including his special digital drawings that he did on his iPad.
His death marks the end of a truly extraordinary career, but his influence on British culture and contemporary art will endure for years to come.
A true West Yorkshire icon that will be missed by many from across the globe. RIP David.
Featured image - Publicity photo via Justin Sutcliffe (supplied)
Art & Culture
A breathtaking giant sculpture of the sun has arrived in Yorkshire for the summer
Clementine Hall
A giant model of the sun is now illuminated in Wakefield.
The sun has arrived in Wakefield… and we’re not just referring to that one that’s popped up in the sky at long last (sort of).
We’re taking about Helios, the amazing art installation that’s about to stop off at Wakefield Exchange as it tours around the UK.
Created by renowned artist, Luke Jerram, the beautiful art piece measures a whopping seven-metres in diameter and has been created using images captured by NASA.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Helios builds on the success of Luke Jerram’s previous installations in Wakefield, including the hugely popular Museum of the Moon.
With its striking scale and rich scientific detail, the artwork provides a safe and captivating way to encounter the Sun up close, highlighting everything from solar flares to the phenomena that created the unforgettable Northern Lights visible across the UK in 2024.
Stepping beneath the breathtaking glowing sculpture, audiences can experience an atmospheric fusion of solar imagery, sunlight and a specially commissioned surround‑sound composition that brings the science and mystery of our nearest star vividly to life.
Alongside the striking sun instillation, Wakefield Exchange will present a full programme of free, family‑friendly, space‑themed activities throughout the summer.
Visitors can enjoy hands‑on workshops, creative crafts, dressing‑up sessions and playful drop‑in experiences.
Helios will be hosted by Wakefield Exchange from Friday 12 June until Sunday 6 September 2026, and you can find out more here on their website.
Thomas Melia -
20th October 2025 
