Only a northern song (contest)

• 17th Jan 2007

For years it has churned out naff tunes, and was unforgivably responsible for both Bucks Fizz and England's first ever 'Nil Pwa'. But it seems like the nations hopes in this years Eurovision Song Contest could now be raised sky high – after not one but two of the most influential indie giants of all time have stepped up to the challenge.

Just days after it was revealed that Manchester's very own Stephen Patrick is in talks to represent Britain, it appears former Pulp frontman Jarvis Cocker has also expressed an interest.

However, it looks like Morrissey's Sheffield counterpart is only interested if the Smiths legend turns out to be unavailable. He told the BBC: “I'm not going to compete with Mozzer if he's going to do it. I'm sure he'll write something good…..Maybe I'll do it next year”

This year's final takes place in Helsinki on May 12th.