Bonnie Tyler chosen as Eurovision UK entry

Welsh pop singer Bonnie Tyler has been confirmed as the UK representative at the 2013 Eurovision Song Contest.

The 61-year-old, best known for her 1983 hit Total Eclipse of the Heart, said she was "honoured" to be asked.

"I promise to give this everything that I've got for the UK!" she said in a statement.

Tyler will be performing the song, Believe in Me, in front of an estimated 120 million viewers in Malmo, Sweden, on 18 May.

"I am truly honoured and delighted to be able to represent my country at Eurovision, and especially with such a fabulous song," said Tyler.

The UK entry for the 58th Eurovision Song Contest was written by American songwriter Desmond Child with British songwriters Lauren Christy and Christopher Braide.

Child has worked with Tyler throughout her career, and has also written hits for rock bands Kiss and Bon Jovi.

He also penned the Ricky Martin hits Livin' La Vida Loca and She Bangs.

"Bonnie Tyler is truly a global superstar with a fantastic voice," said Katie Taylor, BBC Controller, Entertainment and Events.

"We are delighted she will be flying the flag for the UK in Malmo."

Last year's entry, Love Will Set You Free by Engelbert Humperdinck, finished second from last with just 12 points.

Tyler is the first Welsh act to represent the UK at Eurovision since James Fox in 2004, whose song, Hold On to Our Love, finished in 16th place.

The UK last won the Eurovision in 1997 when Katrina and the Waves received 227 points for their song Love Shine a Light.

The UK has entered the competition every year since 1959 and has won on five occasions.

In 2003, Liverpool group Jemini was the first UK entry to receive zero points for their song Cry Baby.

The UK also came last in 2008 with Andy Abraham's song, Even If, and in 2010 with Josh Dubovie's entry, That Sounds Good to Me.

Tyler, born Gaynor Hopkins in Neath, Wales, had her first hit single, Lost in France, in 1976.

She was nominated for three Grammy Awards in 1984, including best female pop vocal for Total Eclipse of the Heart.