Ryan Dolan picked to represent Ireland in the Eurovision 2013

RYAN Dolan was picked on Friday night to represent Ireland in the this year’s Eurovision Song Contest.

The Strabane singer topped the poll of combined votes from five regions and television votes on RTE’s Late Late Show.

The results were revealed lived on air by Late Late Show host Ryan Tubridy.

His song Only Love Survives will now lead the way for Ireland in this year’s Eurovision contest to be held in Malmo, Sweden on May 14.

He said afterwards: “I am delighted. I don’t know what else to say.”

Ryan beat four other acts – Kasey, Inchequin, Aimée and Zoë Alexis Bohorquez to secure the place.

Ryan added: “I am thrilled to have been chosen to represent Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest. A huge thank you to everyone who voted for the song tonight – I really appreciate it.

“I’d like to thank my family, friends and my mentor Stuart for all their support over the last few months. I can’t wait to perform in Malmo in May.”

Mr Dolan, who mentored by Stuart O’Connor, will compete against acts like Germany’s dance group Cascada.

Previous entrants from Northern Ireland include musician Brian Kennedy and previous winner Dana.

Ireland will compete in the first semi-final on Tuesday, May 14 in Sweden.

The final will take place on Saturday 18 May.