Liverpool Puts on a Show, Making Ukraine Proud with Eurovision Staging!
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has hailed Liverpool for “doing Ukraine proud” by hosting the Eurovision Song Contest. The event, kicking off just days before Saturday’s Grand Final, sees the UK hosting on behalf of Ukraine, last year’s winners.
Stars Shine Ahead of the Eurovision Grand Final
UK’s own Sam Ryder dazzled with his hit “Space Man,” finishing a close second last year. Guests at the Downing Street bash donned sparkly outfits, mingling under disco balls and flags of Ukraine and the Union Jack.
Sunak introduced Ruslana, Ukraine’s very first Eurovision champ, who wowed the crowd with a special performance. The event also welcomed legends like Sandie Shaw, the UK’s inaugural winner from 1967, plus Eurovision organisers, Ukrainian artists, Points of Light volunteers, and displaced Ukrainians.
Celebrating Community Heroes and Support
The Prime Minister handed out a Points of Light Award to Liverpool children’s authors Natalie Reeves Billing and Jude Lennon for their “Builder Book Boxes” — 23,000 packs loaded with reading and creative tools for kids across the city. These awards shine a light on volunteers transforming their communities.
The Government has poured £10million into making Eurovision a success. Nearly 3,000 tickets are reserved for Ukrainians displaced by conflict, while big screens will beam the contest live at key UK locations.
Rishi’s Rallying Cry for Ukraine
“Liverpool is doing us all proud. And I think they’re doing Ukraine proud too,” said Sunak.
“It’s an honour for us to host Eurovision on behalf of our Ukrainian friends. It shows yet again that the British people will stand by them for as long as it takes.”
“As my friend President Zelenskyy says… one day this contest will be hosted in a victorious, free Ukraine. Now that will be a party to remember!”
