Lloyd Webber to make Eurovision plea

Andrew Lloyd Webber is set to appear on TV tonight before Strictly Come Dancing, to urge aspiring singers to join the UK's 2009 Eurovision Song Contest bid.

The composer has become involved with the quest to find a credible act to represent the UK at next year's contest in Moscow, after this year's UK representative Andy Abraham finished last.

In tonight's appearance, he will appeal for talented performers to put themselves forward - with details of how to apply also revealed.

"Andrew is adamant we should have a great entry for next year's contest," an insider told The Sun.

Lloyd Webber came aboard the UK's 2009 Eurovision bid following last month's announcement about changes in the contest's voting system.

Next year, the points will be decided by a mix of jury votes and public votes - following continued accusations of 'friendly' voting between neighbouring countries.

"Now that the voting system has changed, Britain has a great chance of winning," the insider added.

The paper also reports that the BBC is planning a major "event show", hosted by Graham Norton, to find 2009's UK representative.

The contest will take place in Moscow next May.