The UK's Eurovision entry, James Newman, who received nul points in the contest in Rotterdam at the weekend with his song Embers, has thanked fans and says he wants to "focus on the positives of this amazing experience".
Newman was the only contestant to receive nul points in both the jury and public votes at this year's contest, which was won by Italy's Måneskin with their song Zitti E Buoni (Shut up and Behave).
Writing on Twitter and Instagram, Newman said: "I want to focus on the positives of this amazing experience. I stood on a stage and sang to hundreds of millions of people with a song that I wrote and love.
"I've learnt so much from the amazing people who gave everything to help me live my dream, the dancers, my choreographer, my vocal coach, everyone from my label, my manager and the BBC, and all the people behind the scenes at Eurovision and the arena."
"All these people are the best in the business and I got the chance to work with them and share this crazy experience that I'm so lucky to have the chance to do," Newman continued.
"The thing about writing songs is that there is no guarantee that a song you think will connect with people, will connect with an audience.
"Thank you to all the amazing dedicated fans who have supported me through the whole thing, made it all worth it. Because at the end of the day they are the people who you do this all for.
"I just want to say a huge massive thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has been on this journey with me, supported me, listened to my music and filled my life with positivity and love.
"The times when it doesn't play out how you hoped it might, teach you how to pick yourself up and be stronger x." [sic]
Among those showing support for James Newman was his singer brother John Newman, who commented: "So so so proud of what you have achieved! On to the next bucket list tick to you and take only the positives with you as these are what make you a better person x." [sic]
