The Cruising singer hosted a Christmas special on BBC Radio 2.

Jane McDonald’s emotional Christmas message after devastating loss (Image: ITV)

Jane McDonald returned to the airwaves on Christmas Day where she played all of her favourite hits. In a candid message she opened up about “tough times” in the heartfelt video as listeners flocked to the comment section to wish the presenter well.

Taking to the official BBC Radio 2 Instagram account the on-screen star offered some kind words. She began: “Hi everyone. It’s me Jane McDonald. I’d just like to wish you all a very peaceful and healthy Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

“I know some of us have had tough times, but I always think this will pass. And it’s time for festive fun, now.

And I really, really hope you all find love and laughter this Christmas. Lots of love.”

Jane McDonald delivered a Christmas message (Image: Instagram BBC Radio 2)

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One social media user commented: “Merry Christmas I am going through hell just lost my hubby I know you know that feeling but you give me hope xxx.”

Another remarked: “Happy Christmas Jane and a very special toast to absent friends.”

“Merry Christmas from Wakey Jane! Such a beautiful message,” a third typed.

Jane recently revealed that four years after the death of her fiancé Ed Rothe, she’s still facing the heartache of grief.

Jane McDonald pictured with her late partner Eddie Rothe (Image: Instagram Jane McDonald)

The former Loose Women also shared she is not closed off at the idea of finding love again.

“I’ll never say never, because you just don’t know what’s around the corner, do you?” she told the Mirror and OK! magazine.

“But if it never happens, then fine. I had a great partner who I feel very blessed that I had in my life. And I’m fine. I’ve got a great group of friends who I go out with and that’s enough, really.”

The Yorkshire-born singer and TV presenter first dated Eddie, drummer of Liverpool rock band The Searchers, as a teenager before they rekindled their relationship in 2008.

But their love story was cut tragically short in 2021 when Eddie died aged 67 after a battle with lung cancer.