UK announces national search for Eurovision entry

After a string of lousy results at Eurovision, the BBC has announced a national hunt for its 2016 entry.

The search, which allows for amateur, professional or superstar entries, is a major shift from the broadcaster selecting the entry.

There will be three routes concurrently sourcing contenders: the BBC is inviting anyone over the age of 18 to submit a video featuring the artist who would perform the song in Stockholm (the UK branch of the General Organisation of Eurovision Fans, which has around 1000 members, will assist in the shortlisting of entries); the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors will run a song-writing competition; and Hugh Goldsmith, former MD of RCA and founder of Innocent Records, will co-ordinate high-level music industry entries.

Songs from all routes of entry will be included in a final shortlist, presented to a professional panel and public, for final selection.

More details regarding this will be announced in due course.