Community leaders have been magnanimous in defeat while expressing disappointment at Newcastle’s elimination from the competition to host the Eurovision Song Contest next year.

It was hoped the North East city would be able to stage the annual event but it has been removed from the shortlist along with Birmingham, Leeds, Sheffield and Manchester.

It means the contest will now be held in either Liverpool, home to 1993 runner-up, Sonia, or Glasgow where 1969 winner Lulu grew up.

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Ukraine’s entry, Kalush Orchestra, won this year but the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which produces the contest, ruled it could not be there for safety reasons following the invasion by Russian forces.

Chi Onwurah MP said: “While I’m naturally disappointed that Newcastle won’t be hosting the Eurovision party on behalf of Ukraine, Glasgow and Liverpool would both be worthy hosts and will do a fantastic job.

“The solidarity that the UK has shown with Ukraine has been wonderful to see and I’m sure Eurovision in the UK will be a great celebration of Ukrainian culture.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved in the bid to bring Eurovision to Newcastle and while it wasn’t meant to be this time, we’ve shown what we can offer the world.”

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Newcastle City Councillor Alex Hay said the city would still be hosting events to celebrate Eurovision and Ukrainian culture.

He said: “Naturally I am very disappointed. ​Right from the very start our residents, businesses and communities have come together to get behind our campaign, and I couldn't have been prouder with our efforts, and I would like to thank them all for their amazing efforts.

“Newcastle was a strong contender throughout the process, but I take my hat off to Glasgow and Liverpool the two remaining shortlisted cities and I wish them all the very best.

“I am sure I speak on behalf of the city when I say Newcastle wishes them both good luck. ​

“This isn't the end of Newcastle's Eurovision journey.

“We'll be hosting all sorts of events in the city to celebrate Eurovision and Ukrainian culture which residents and visitors can get involved in.”

Sarah Green, chief executive officer at NewcastleGateshead Initiative offered her congratulation to Glasgow and Liverpool.

She said: “Working with BBC, Newcastle City Council, and partners it has been an incredible opportunity to showcase the city and the brilliant people who call our region home.

“I know we demonstrated the warmth of our welcome, and our spirit of collaboration to the best of our ability.

“This really was a region-wide effort and being a shortlisted host city has enabled us to tell the North East’s story nationally and internationally.

“I am immensely proud of the city and would welcome more opportunities of this scale.”

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