Eurovision: Serbia wins as Scooch fly low

Serbia was crowned winner of the 52nd Eurovision Song Contest in Helsinki on Saturday night - while Scooch avoided the dreaded 'nul point' by notching up 19 points.

Second favourite Serbia triumphed with its debut entry 'Molitva' by Marija Serifovic, winning with 268 points. Serbia had previously participated in the contest as Serbia and Montenegro.

Early favourites Ukraine finished second with 235 points, followed by Russia (207), Turkey (163) and Bulgaria (157).

Ukraine's cross-dressing entry Verka Serduchka were hot favourites to win before Thursday night's semi-final with bookies tipping Marija for success after she made it through to the final.

Despite giving an energetic performance, UK entry Scooch were Flying The Flag at half-mast until Ireland awarded a lucky seven points. Malta were the only country to give the UK 12 points.

And although Ireland holds the title for being the country that has won the contest more times than any other in the history of Eurovision, this year Ireland finished last being awarded just five points from Albania.