Zoe Ball spotted laughing with ex Norman Cook AKA Fatboy Slim ahead of return to BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show

BBC Radio 2 DJ Zoe Ball has been pictured for the first time since her prolonged absence from her Breakfast Show slot at the station. The 53-year-old was snapped laughing alongside her ex-husband, Norman Cook, better known as musician and music producer, Fatboy Slim.

Zoe has been away from work for six-weeks, following what has been a difficult year for the star. In March it was announced her mother, Julia Peckham, had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer before she passed away in April. During this time Zoe took time off work returning to her show in May.

Paying tribute to her mother on social media, Ball wrote: “Sleep tight dear Mama. Thank you for teaching us how to love unconditionally, to always show courage and empathy, and how, even in the darkest of days, laughter is the greatest of gifts. We are bereft without you but will hold so tight to each other.”

And earlier this year, Zoe also publicly revealed her diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a neurodevelopmental condition that affects concentration, behaviour, and can cause restlessness and trouble sleeping. In addition to this, her relationship with Michael Reed ended this year, after five and a half years together.

But it looks like the rest has done her good, if the pictures taken on Sunday (September 15) are anything to go by. The 53-year-old looked to be having a great time with friends in East Sussex.

The former Live and Kicking presenter was seen with a group of people at the The Big Beach Cafe at Hove Lagoon in Hove at around 5pm. Photos show her chatting and laughing with the group before walking towards the Hove Lagoon Outdoor Gym. Eyewitnesses say the broadcaster stayed there for just over an hour.

Zoe last appeared on her breakfast programme on August 8. Her show has been covered with replacements including Scott Mills and Gaby Roslin.

However, she is set to return in mere days as, according to the BBC’s online schedule, Zoe will be back to her hosting duties on Monday (September 23), with the Maximum Music Monday show.

The description of the show reads: "Wake up and embrace the day with Zoe Ball and the team. Zoe keeps the tunes rolling on Maximum Music Monday."