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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Scarlett O'Toole

BBC set to air Junior Eurovision Song Contest for first time ever as UK makes a comeback

The Junior Eurovision Song Contest will be broadcast on the BBC for the first time, and the UK is making a comeback.

Britain has not had an entry for the competition for nine to 14-year-olds since 2005, three editions after the inaugural one in Copenhagen.

Defending champions Armenia will host the event on December 11.

A process to select an act and song in the UK is now under way, being led by CBBC with BBC Studios entertainment and music.

Further details, including who will be commentating for the UK, will be announced in due course.

Patricia Hidalgo, director of BBC Children’s and Education, said: "We are beyond excited to bring the contest to the BBC for the first time, and to showcase the diverse young musical talent from across Europe for children and their families to discover and enjoy together."

Malena Fox of Armenia won it last year (CHRISTOPHE PETIT TESSON/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)

She added: “This junior version of Eurovision will undoubtedly ­encapsulate the same spirit of unity that the adult contest brings, reflecting the heart of what CBBC is all about – an inclusive channel that celebrates the diversity and ­creativity in all children.

“I can’t wait to unveil our own musical talent who will proudly represent the UK.”

The announcement follows the news that the BBC will host next year’s Eurovision Song Contest in the United Kingdom on behalf of Ukraine.

The shortlist for UK cities to host Eurovision 2023 was announced after Sam Ryder came second (AP)

Earlier this month, the shortlist for the host city was announced with Birmingham named alongside Leeds, Liverpool, Sheffield, Glasgow, Manchester and Newcastle.

The UK was given the chance to host Eurovision for the ninth time – more than any other country – after this year's winning country Ukraine would not be able to host as the ongoing war poses a "significant risk".

The Junior Eurovision Song Contest will air on CBBC, BBC1 and BBC iPlayer.

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