Manchester throws hat in ring to host Eurovision 2023
Organisers have decided reigning champions Ukraine can't host it because of the ongoing war
Last updated 18th Jun 2022
Manchester is one of a number of cities vying to host the Eurovision Song Contest if it comes to the UK next year.
Organisers of the competition have decided that reigning champions Ukraine can't host it because of the ongoing war with Russia.
The UK's Sam Ryder finished second in the competition this year, and discussions are underway about whether the annual event could come to Britain instead.
Since the announcement was made by organisers on Friday that the UK could host next year's contest, cities across the UK have been showing their interest in hosting the competition, including Manchester.
Taking to Twitter, Manchester City Council leader, Bev Craig, said: "Hello @bbceurovision this is Manchester calling 👋
"Not the circumstances that anyone would want given the war in Ukraine. But if it’s to be a UK city- I can’t think of anywhere better, a great music city and fittingly home to a large Ukrainian community. #Eurovision"
The idea of holding the competition in Manchester next year has also been backed by Greater Manchester's Night-time Economy Advisor, Sacha Lord, who said on Twitter:
"Bringing @Eurovision@bbceurovision to Greater Manchester 2023, would be huge for our city region.
"We're globally known for our music and I'm confident the right people would give it the full support, to make this happen."
If the UK does host the contest in 2023, it would be the ninth time it has taken place here - more than any other country.