Eurovision 2018 kicks off in Lisbon as SuRie aims to lift crown for United Kingdom

The Eurovision Song Contest final kicked off in Lisbon with a show-stopping intro that saw UK hopeful SuRie receive rapturous applause.

Host country Portugal was determined to show off their national talent as a number of performers opened the 63rd Eurovision Song Contest.

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All of the contestants then were introduced into the arena as the sold-out crowd cheered for their representatives.

Bookies favourite Cyprus received a huge cheer in the flag ceremony, but it's still anyone's game to win. Our own Surie beamed as she waved to the Lisbon crowd.

The four presenters put on a glamorous display as they explained the rules for the competition.

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This year promises to be a dramatic competition with several of the big contenders not making it through the semi-finals. Russia shocked many by not qualifying for tonight's final.

Fans of the annual pop extravaganza have flooded the city of Lisbon as they donned their nation's flag and pledged their support for the participants.

The British supporters donned eye-catching Union Jack clothes that would make even Ginger Spice green with envy.

British fans brandished flags as they marched into Lisbon to support Surie, aiming to lift the crown for the United Kingdom.

A group of Australian fans arrived with kangaroo costumes as they supported their hopefuls. It's the fourth year that Australia have competed and with a great track record, this could be the year that they win with hopeful Jessica Mauboy.

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Eurovision fans faced dissapointment today when Rylan Clark-Neal had to pull out of his co-hosting duties due to "unforeseen circumstances."

Rylan tweeted: "Due to unforeseen circumstances having to fly back to the UK and will miss the final.

"Good luck to all delegations it's been a pleasure meeting you all and most of all good luck to our girl @SurieOfficial. Thanks Team UK it's been amazing."

Fans rushed to support 29-year-old Rylan, with many expressing how much of a "shame" it will be to not get his expert opinion on the pop extravaganza.

One fanatic tweeted: "What a shame! I hope everything is OK for you."

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