‘Surprised’ audience Olly Alexander’s father gave the Eurovision singer zero points

Olly Alexander’s father said he was surprised the audience “didn’t connect” with his son’s song at Eurovision.

Olly, who represented the UK with his song Dizzy, received zero points from the public vote and finished 18th overall at Sweden’s Malmo Arena.

David Thornton said performing in the final was another “fantastic learning experience” for his son.

Mr Thornton told the BBC from his Eurovision party in Sheffield: “It’s a step up wherever it goes.”

Olly, who was born in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, received a total of 46 points from the judges but none from the public vote.

“I enjoyed every minute of it,” Mr Thornton said.

“For me, it’s a real surprise that the audience didn’t connect with that song, even though the judges gave it a very good score.”

The former Years & Years singer, 33, was criticized on social media for his “weak” and “inappropriate” voice during Tuesday’s semi-final after his microphone pack fell off during the performance.

She later defended her singing on ITV’s Lorraine, saying: “I had a slight wardrobe malfunction – my microphone pack came off – and she had to improvise, but that’s fine – it’s live TV, it happens.”

Despite Britain’s disappointment, Mr Thornton said we should “always look on the bright side of Dizzy”.

“This will be a fantastic learning experience for him, he had a great time there.

“It’s just a stepping stone to wherever he’s going next.”

Meanwhile, Switzerland won the competition with a total of 591 points.

In his victory speech on stage, Nemo said: “I hope this pageant can live up to its promise and continue to support peace and dignity for every person in this world.”

Croatia came second with the energizing party anthem Rim Tim Tagi Dim by Baby Lasagna with a total of 547 points and Ukraine third with 453 points.