Eurovision 2023 marked the first time the UK has hosted a final in 25 years. Last year’s winners, Ukraine, decided that the UK could host for them as the war at home prevented them from doing so. Liverpool won an internal UK competition to host.
The 2023 event had it all. There was all the usual glitz, kitsch and extraordinary lighting. The Princess of Wales surprised fans by taking part in a short, instrumental piano performance during the opening. The three female hosts exuded almost manic enthusiasm and excitement. Graham Norton has assumed Terry Wogan’s inimitable style of commentating. Contestants belted out their Eurostyle anthems. Sweden won and England did not! Ukraine came sixth.
For Eurovision fans in Rye there was only one place to be. Jane Brook at the Brewery Yard Club (BYC) organised a watch party for around 60 people. She kindly invited some of the Ukrainian ladies from Rye hub of the Homes for Ukraine (H4U). Six accepted and were rewarded with a ringside table. The Rye hub H4U partly helped sponsor their attendance. There were plenty of Ukrainian flags to add to the decorations. Resident host, Timberlina was on hand to keep the party going.
Most agreed that it was a fantastic evening. To top it, BYC raised over £750 through a raffle and auction, with 25 prizes generously donated by individuals and businesses from across Rye. The money will go to support future activities of the Rye Homes for Ukraine hub.
Image Credits: Anthony Kimber .