Crooner Englebert Humperdinck is UK Eurovision entry 2012

The BBC have announced that sixties heartthrob Englebert Humperdinck, who last had a top 40 hit in the UK charts back in 1972, is this years singer for the corporation and United Kingdom.

“After much speculation the BBC are proud to announce that musical legend Engelbert Humperdinck will fly the flag for Britain” The BBC state.

Engelbert will be representing his country with a track produced by Grammy award-winning Martin Terefe, who has also provided hits for Mary J Blige and James Morrison, and is co-written by Martin and Ivor Novello winner Sacha Skarbek who has collaborated with performers such as Adele and James Blunt. The track is being recorded in London, L.A and Nashville. Which makes a change from the BBC insisting everything should be produced either in Salford or Cardiff.

“With a gob smacking 45 year career as one of Britain’s best-loved artists, there couldn’t be a more experienced performer to hold the torch for the UK’s Eurovision bid in 2012.” The BBC add.

While singles chart success has dried up, albums have proved more popular. His Very Best album of 2000 peaked at number 5 on the UK album chart and his Greatest Love Songs compilation reached number 4. Engelbert continues to tour with a mix of new songs and old favourites, including tours across many European countries which may hopefully help those viewers to push the votes our way.

“It’s an absolute honour to be representing my country for this year’s Eurovision Song Contest. When the BBC approached me, it just felt right for me to be a part of an institution like Eurovision. I’m excited and raring to go and want the nation to get behind me!” Engelbert said.

Television is no new venture for the 75-year-old star – he’s also hosted his own entertainment and music series for ATV in The Engelbert Humperdinck Show, however it proved to be less successful than sixties music ‘rival’ Tom Jones’ version.