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Isle Of Wight Eurovision 2023 Hopes Dashed Due To 'Unsuitable Venue'

Hopes that the Isle of Wight could host Eurovision when it comes to the UK next year, appear to have been dashed by the council.

The Isle of Wight Council has confirmed it would "love" to host the contest, but believes the Island does not possess a venue big enough.

The song competition, which saw Sam Ryder claim second in May, is coming to the UK for the 67th event.

Ukraine won the competition but the country is unable to host due to Russia's invasion. After the UK agreed to step in, a search is now underway for a host city.

Asked whether the Isle of Wight would throw its hat into the ring, a council spokesperson said:

"We would love to see the Island host Eurovision in 2023. Last year, the European Broadcasting Unions Host City criteria was based on providing a venue able to accommodate at least 10,000 spectators, as well as a press centre.

"Unfortunately, the Island does not have such a facility.

"We would of course be happy to work with neighbouring authorities should they bid, as we did recently with the City of Culture.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted that the UK would "put on a fantastic contest on behalf of our Ukrainian friends", saying that he was in talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky last week.

Glasgow and Manchester have already expressed an interest in stepping up as hosts.

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