We’ve got the Euro vision for a fab party!
MANCHESTER will put on the ‘biggest party in the UK’ – and do Ukraine proud – should it be picked to host Eurovision 2023.
That’s according to council boss Bev Craig, following the announcement the city had made the host shortlist.
Seven cities have made the cut to put on the show, which was won by Ukraine this year.
Normally, the winners of the contest will host next year’s edition.
However, due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, bosses at Eurovision have decided to move the host to the second-placed country – which was the UK this year, after Sam Ryder’s stellar performance of ‘Space Man.’
Now, Eurovision and the BBC have selected seven cities to be shortlisted. Joining Manchester are Birmingham, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle and Sheffield.
2023 will be the ninth time the UK has hosted Eurovision – a record – and the last time it did was in 1998, in Birmingham.
Manchester council leader, Coun Bev Craig, said: “We are thrilled to have made it through to become the 2023 Eurovision host city.
“Manchester stands ready to put on the biggest party in the UK at the city’s AO Arena, taking our place in Eurovision’s unique history. We have a large and proud Ukrainian community in Manchester. It would be our privilege to host this iconic celebration on their behalf and we will do everything we can to honour them throughout.”
The council’s city centre spokesperson, Pat Karney, said: “Wonderful start.
“Now the really hard work begins to make Manchester’s case. Let’s do this for Manchester and Ukraine.
“Making Manchester’s case for the next stage starts today. We bid for the Olympics and Commonwealth Games so we know how much work is ahead.”
The city-region’s nighttime economy adviser, Sacha Lord, said that ‘we deserve this!’ Lucy Powell, Labour MP for Manchester Central and Shadow Culture Secretary, added: “Congratulations to Manchester and all the other cities shortlisted to host.”