Ukraine has won this year's Eurovision contest, with the UK finishing second.

Tik Tok star Sam Ryder wowed the jury, and the audience, with his upbeat performance of Space Man.

But in the end, it was folk-rap group Kalush Orchestra’s Stefania that gained the most votes.

Despite the loss, the UK delivered a fantastic performance.

Essex-born Ryder was the 22nd act to take to the stage during Saturday's finals, playing a guitar mid-show in front of a crowd of 7,000 fans at the Pala Olympica arena in Turin.

Concluding his set, the singer said: “Shine brightly my friends. Thank you all.”

Daily Echo: Sam Ryder at Eurovision. Picture: PASam Ryder at Eurovision. Picture: PA

Graham Norton, who is once again anchoring the contest on BBC One, said: “What a powerhouse performance. You can’t ask for much more than that.

“There is a sea of Union Jack flags.”

Ryder co-wrote the uplifting pop song with Grammy-winning songwriter Amy Wadge, who has previously worked with Ed Sheeran and Max Wolfgang.

His second place was the first time that the UK has finished in the top three at the Eurovision Song Contest in 20 years.

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