UK holds out for a hero as Bonnie Tyler chosen for Eurovision Song Contest 2013

“Total Eclipse of the Heart” singer Bonnie Tyler will represent Britain at the Eurovision Song Contest 2013.

The Welsh singer, 61, will perform the song “Believe in Me” in front of around 120 million viewers. This year’s contest takes place on 18 May in Malmo, Sweden.

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"I promise to give this everything that I've got for the UK!" she said in a statement. “I am truly honoured and delighted to be able to represent my country at Eurovision, and especially with such a fabulous song.”

“Believe in Me” was co-written by Desmond Child who has worked with Tyler throughout her career as well as for Kiss, Bon Jovi, and Ricky Martin (“Livin’ La Vida Loca” and “She Bangs”).

Tyler’s first hit single “Lost in France” reached the UK top 10 in 1976. She is best known for “Holding Out for a Hero” and “Total Eclipse of the Heart”.

Her career was almost over before it began when in 1976 she had to have surgery to remove nodules to her throat leaving her with trademark husky vocals.

Her appearance at Eurovision follows a trend for former British stars to make a return to the limelight via the programme. Last year’s representative was “Release Me” singer Englebert Humperdinck who came second-from-last in the competition with just 12 points.

"Bonnie Tyler is truly a global superstar with a fantastic voice," said Katie Taylor, BBC controller of entertainment and events. "We are delighted she will be flying the flag for the UK in Malmo."

The UK has entered the annual singing competition every year since 1959 and has won five times, the last occasion being in 1997 when Katrina and the Waves performed “Love Shine a Light”.

There is another British hope in the competition this year as Birmingham-born Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi has written the entry for Armenia. The song,  “Lonely Planet”, described as a “ rock ballad” will be performed by Armenian group Dorians.