The Irish in Britain, including those of Irish descent, make up a significant part of the UK population. Here, you will find news, entertainment, events, sports and features from the local Irish Post newspaper.

Ireland finished in third place behind Finland and the Ukraine at the first ever Eurovision Dance Contest which was aired on the BBC on Saturday night.

Finland, represented by Jussi Vnnen and Katja Koukkula, won the contest after viewers from 16 participating nations across Europe awarded them 132 points.

The Ukraine, represented by Ilyia Sydorenko and Julia Okropiridze came second with 121 points and Ireland took third place when Irish dancers Mick Donegan and Nicola Byrne polled 95 points.

Both Mick and Nicola have held lead roles in Riverdance.

Britain was placed a dismal 15th with Strictly Come Dancing regulars Brendan Cole and Camilla Dallerup polling just 18 points.

Only Switzerland fared worse coming in last place with the dreaded ‘nil points’.

Each couple performed two dances one a choice of traditional Latin or ballroom and the other a freestyle dance reflecting their national culture.

Competing countries included Austria, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Lithuania, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine and Britain.