The Eurovision Song Contest will take place in the UK next year it has been announced.

Show organisers confirmed that it could not be held in the winning country, Ukraine as a matter of safety due to the ongoing war with Russia.

Ukraine won this year’s Eurovision with the song Stefania by Kalush Orchestra, who bested the UK’s own Sam Ryder who placed second with his track Space Man.

BBC director general Tim Davie said on Twitter: “It is a matter of great regret that our colleagues and friends in Ukraine are not able to host the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest. Being asked to host the largest and most complex music competition in the world is a great privilege,”

“The BBC is committed to making the event a true reflection of Ukrainian culture alongside showcasing the diversity of British music and creativity.”

Ukraine will automatically qualify for the grand final, while there will be a special logo to mark the unusual circumstances of the event.

A Downing Street spokesperson said the BBC and UK would “pull out all the stops” to make sure the event celebrates and honours Ukraine and encouraged viewers to stock up on Ukrainian flags.

London, Sheffield and Manchester have all already confirmed that they will put in official bids to host the event.