Birmingham reacts to Eurovision shortlist news

Birmingham “can put on a great party” for next year’s Eurovision Song Contest after making the shortlist of UK cities bidding to host the competition, civic chiefs have said.Flush from hosting a successful Commonwealth Games, Birmingham was named alongside Leeds, Liverpool, Sheffield, Glasgow, Manchester and Newcastle, as possible venues for the glittering 2023 vocal showcase.The competition was set to be held in Ukraine after Kalush Orchestra won this year’s contest, but Russia’s invasion meant organisers instead selected the UK – whose entry Sam Ryder came second – as host.Reacting on Friday, Birmingham City Council leader Ian Ward said: “We are delighted to be one of the seven shortlisted cities.