The BBC is currently casting for a brand new reality dating show similar to Love Island, and us Yorkshire lot are being encouraged to apply.
Those of us who are unlucky in love, that is.
You may have seen this week that ITV has released the long-awaited lineup of famous faces set to head into the Love Island villa for the second ‘All Stars’ series starting next week, but for those regular folk on the look-out for that special someone to spend the rest of their lives with, the BBC and its newest series has got you covered.
If marriage is your end goal, this new show takes care of that sooner rather than later, as singles get matched up and married pretty much as soon as their journey starts.
From the creators of Married at First Sight, and set to be titled ‘Stranded on Honeymoon Island’, casting directors are calling on single people who are ready to “find their perfect match in paradise” to apply.
Image: BBC
Anyone thinking of sticking an application in just need to be 18 years of age or over, and have the right to live and work in the UK, as well as being open to getting ‘married’ on TV too, of course.
A casting call on the BBC website reads: “Are you single, unlucky in love, and ready to find your perfect match in paradise? The series will see 12 unlucky-in-love singles get matched up and married, before being marooned on a tropical island, to see if true love will blossom and survive…or dive?.”
Produced for the BBC by CPL Productions, no release date for Stranded on Honeymoon Island has been revealed yet, but filming is expected to take place this year.
Applications are now live, and you have until 28 February to pop your name down
Fancy it then? Find out more and apply on the BBC website 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.
Emily Sergeant -
10th January 2025 
