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Wogan: Eurovision is envy of the world

03/05/2008

Three weeks before this year's Eurovision, Terry Wogan has described the contest as unique and the envy of the TV world.

The TV radio and stalwart, synonymous with the BBC's coverage of the competition, said US networks and viewers "would kill" for something like Eurovision.

"It's the only international television/radio event of its kind anywhere," Wogan said.

"A wonderful idea – bringing Europe together in song – a huge, brilliantly produced triumph of musical mediocrity."

This year's UK entry is from former X Factor contestant Andy Abraham, and Wogan says Even If is Britain's "best for years".

Abraham himself says his effort conforms to the Eurovision success formula of being "catchy, memorable and original".

But Wogan predicts that the record of no country from western Europe winning Eurovision since Katrina and the Waves triumphed for the UK in 1997 is set to continue.

This year's Eurovision will come from Serbia following Marija Serifovic's resounding victory in 2007.

According to Abraham the strong nationalist feelings present in eastern and central Europe are behind Eurovision's renewed popularity.

"I feel that people love the patriotic side of the competition and really get behind the contestant that's representing their country," the 43-year-old said.