The Eurovision host city shortlists for 2023 have officially been announced with Liverpool and Glasgow contenders.

It comes after news in early August that seven cities were in the running to host for song contest after winners Ukraine were unable to follow the ongoing conflict. 

The cities included in the initial shortlist were Birmingham, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle and Sheffield.

However, organisers have confirmed that Liverpool and Glasgow are the two remaining cities in the running. 

Phil Harrold, the chair of the BBC’s Host City Selection Committee says: “Thanks to all seven cities across the UK who have demonstrated the enthusiasm and passion for Eurovision that exists right across the UK.

"We were incredibly impressed by the quality and creativity of all the city bids, in what was a highly competitive field."

Adding that they are "determined to make the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest one that both reflects the winning position of Ukraine and is also an event that all of the UK can participate in.”

Following the announcement, further discussions will now take place with officials from Glasgow and Liverpool and a final decision will be made within weeks.