While the identity of the United Kingdom's Eurovision representative is still very much up in the air, bookies have named their favourite to fly the flag for us in Liverpool this year. And its an act that has already had considerable chart success.
The UK has experienced mixed fortunes to say the least in the Eurovision Song Contest over the years. While there have been wins for the likes of Brotherhood of Man and Bucks Fizz, the last time the nation triumphed was 26 years ago, with Katrina and the Waves in 1997. And it's been 20 years since Jemini became infamous after getting nil points with their track Cry Baby.
Ironically, the duo hailed from Liverpool, which is where this year's Eurovision will be held, after the European Broadcasting Union ruled that last year;'s winners, Ukraine, weren;'t able to stage the annual event.
READ MORE: Who is the UK Eurovision entry? Speculation heightens on act after ticket announcement
A growing number of countries have chosen their entries for Eurovision 2023, including the likes of Ireland, France, Spain and Italy but, at the time of writing, there had been no news on who will do the honours for the UK.
Whoever it is has a tough act to follow, after 2022 act Sam Ryder finished second, the UK's best result since 1997 and topped the jury vote.
Names thrown into the mix to be the UK Eurovision's act this year include Birdy, Mimi Webb, Rina Sawayama and Freya Ridings. And its Skinny Love and Wild Horses star Birdy who bookies William Hill are tipping to get the nod, with her on odds of 6/4.
This Hell singer and Brit nominee Rina is second in the odds, with Freya and recent Brits performer Cat Burns both on 6/1.
William Hill spokesperson, Lee Phelps, commented: It will need to take a special effort to beat Sam Ryder’s haul of 466 points last year, but our punters are beginning to feel confident in Birdy’s chances of spreading her wings in Liverpool.
“The 26-year-old is 6/4 with us to lead out the United Kingdom when this year’s Eurovision Song Contest takes place in May, making her the outright favourite to perform in front of the home crowd.
“Also keep an eye out on Rina Sawayama’s (5/2) price as the countdown to the competition begins, whilst Freya Ridings and Cat Burns (both 6/1) will likewise be anticipating a call to action.”
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