It's officially September, and that means that the festive season is practically round the corner and we can start thinking about Christmas.
GREAT! movies christmas is the UK's biggest seasonal channel, and it's back "earlier than ever" this year, reports The Manc.
If you’re in need a little help getting into the festive spirit this year, then, by all accounts, it sounds like the return of the TV channel that charmed audiences in 2021 will do just that.
Image: Universal Pictures
But whether or not you feel it’s too early to be thinking about Christmas at this point, it’ll soon be too tricky to escape from – and especially not when there’s a free TV channel showing festive film favourites non-stop set to launch in the UK next week.
You heard that right – Christmas films, 24-hours a day, seven days a week.
The 24-hour, feel-good and free-to-air channel will be bursting with non-stop Christmas spirit from Thursday 8 September 2022.
Image: Universal Pictures
They will be showing a heartwarming lineup of festive films – including some absolute fan-favourite classics that make it to screens every year without fail, alongside some cheesy Hallmark classics, new channel premieres, and so much more.
“Let’s face it – it’s never too early for Christmas,” the broadcaster claimed.
As well as a “sparkling lineup of Yuletide delights”, there’ll also be themed days too, such as ‘A Romantic Christmas’ and ‘Santa Sunday’.
Image: 20th Century Studios
GREAT! movies christmas will be temporarily replacing GREAT! movies classic, and will be free to watch on Freeview 52, Sky 319, Virgin 424, and Freesat 303.
It’ll be on air right through until Monday 2 January 2023 and we cannot wait to get into the festive spirit.
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.
Clementine Hall -
1st September 2022 
