UK to host Eurovision 2023 for the first time in more than 20 YEARS after stepping in for Ukraine

EUROVISION will be held in Britain next year as the UK steps in to host for Ukraine.

Britain will host the song contest for the first time in 24 years as Ukraine remains under siege from Russian forces.

No city has been given the exciting job of hosting the event yet.

But places that meet the right criteria will be able to compete for the hot opportunity.

London, Sheffield and Manchester have already confirmed they will bid for the job.

The Sheffield City Council official Twitter account posted: "We've told Eurovision we'd love to host... watch this space.

Meanwhile, Manchester City Council leader Bev Craig said: "Manchester will be bidding to host Eurovision. A world class music city, brilliant venues, experience in hosting major events, and of course one of the UK's largest Ukrainian populations - we are confident we will make it a Eurovision to remember."

Last year Ukrainian band Kalush Orchestra wowed audiences in Italy with their smash hit Stefania.

They won over the hearts of viewers across the world and Ukraine was crowned Eurovision champion for 2022.

The UK's entrant Sam Ryder similarly blew audiences away with his song Space Man.

The TikTok star's talent saw him storm ahead into second place.

Per tradition, Eurovision should be held in Ukraine next year. But because of Russia's evil war, hosting a global music spectacular won't be possible.

Politicians have spent months calling for the UK to step up and host the party of the year in honour of Ukraine and hero President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Boris Johnson said he hoped it could happen too - and now it is.

The PM commented: "Last week President Zelensky and I agreed that wherever Eurovision 2023 is held, it must celebrate the country and people of Ukraine.

"As we are now hosts, the UK will honour that pledge directly – and put on a fantastic contest on behalf of our Ukrainian friends."

Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries said: "Following a request from the European Broadcasting Union and the Ukrainian authorities, I’m delighted that the BBC has agreed to step in and host next year's contest.

"I'm just sorry that due to Russia's continued acts of bloodshed it has not been possible to host the event in Ukraine, where it should be. 

"As hosts, the UK will honour the competition's spirit and diversity, and most importantly, ensure it reflects Ukraine’s recent Eurovision victory and Ukrainian creativity."

The last time Eurovision took place in Britain was in Birmingham in 1998.

Before that Harrogate, Brighton and Edinburgh played host during the 80s and 70s.