Eurovision 'superfans' arrive in Liverpool ahead of first semi-final

Two trains carrying 170 so-called Eurovision superfans arrived in Liverpool to be welcomed by drummers, drag queens and dancers.

Members of international fan network OGAE received the rapturous greeting at Liverpool Lime Street ahead of the competition's first semi-final on Tuesday.

The trains were operated by Avanti West Coast from London and by London Northwestern Railway from Birmingham.

The train manager for the Avanti West Coast train was Jan Fuller-Green, an OGAE member who attended Eurovision events in Stockholm and Lisbon.

He said: "Having travelled around Europe, it's amazing to have the competition on our doorstep.

"It's such an honour for me to look after the superfans today. Such amazing tales, all united by the love of Eurovision."

Music producer Peter Waterman joined the service at Crewe.

OGAE president Simon Bennett said: "We are absolutely thrilled to be partnered with Avanti West Coast and to give our members a chance to travel to Liverpool in style.

"The atmosphere in Liverpool is already fantastic but this means our members can get the party started even before they arrive in the city."

Nicola Ryder, commercial partnerships manager at Avanti West Coast, said: "We're incredibly proud to play our part in getting this group of dedicated fans to and from Eurovision.

"Liverpool always guarantees a friendly welcome and it's the home of so many great musicians over the years, making it the perfect venue to host this year's event on behalf of the people of Ukraine.

"The atmosphere on the journey north was amazing and we have no doubt our guests will have a Eurovision to remember."

Fifteen acts will perform in semi semi-final one this evening at Liverpool's M&S Bank Arena, with the top 10 progressing to Saturday's final.

But they face tough competition with previous winner Loreen representing Sweden and fan favourite Kaarija representing Finland also in that round.

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