CHART star Gary Barlow is to play two exclusive charity gigs on board Britain’s newest cruise ship this Autumn.

The Take That frontman will appear on P&O Cruises ship Iona on two sailings to Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands.

He will perform in the ship’s Headliners theatre after joining the ship at one of the ports of call, although will not be onboard for the full cruises.

Barlow, 51, is the music director of The 710 Club on Iona, which showcases up and coming artists, and played live at the ship’s naming ceremony as I reported here.

Guests on the two cruises will buy £10 raffle tickets to win seats in the theatre, with all proceeds going to Child Bereavement UK and the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Barlow is expected to perform stripped-back versions of both solo hits and Take That pop anthems.

The cruises are to Spain and Portugal cruise (G236) departing Southampton on October 29, 2022 and Spain, Portugal and Canary Islands cruise (G237) departing Southampton on November 12, 2022.

“One thing I love is making memories,” says Barlow. “I think music does that extremely well. I look forward to joining guests on board Iona later this year to create some truly special holiday memories.”

P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow adds: “It is a real delight to welcome Gary back on Iona for what will be extraordinary performances.

“His love of music, which has taken him on so many journeys and adventures, will provide guests on board with a unique night of world-class entertainment fused with an amazing travel experience.”

With Take That Barlow has won eight BRIT Awards and sold more than 45 million records. He has also had a string of solo hits, and co-written and produced music for Shirley Bassey, Elton John and Robbie Williams.

For full cruise itineraries see www.pocruises.com.