A NORTH Yorkshire singer-songwriter has broken his silence after receiving zero points in the Eurovision Song Contest.

James Newman gave an energetic performance of his song ‘Embers’ but failed to impress the voting public and industry professionals.

However, the musician, from Settle, said he was focusing on the positives of what had been ‘an amazing experience’.

“I stood on a stage and sang to hundreds of millions of people with a song that I wrote and love,” said Mr Newman, brother of popstar John Newman, in a post to social media.

“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.”

He stressed that, in songwriting there was ‘no guarantee’ that a given tune would connect with an audience.

Mr Newman, 35, thanked the ‘amazing, dedicated fans’ who had supported him and ‘made it all worth it’.

“At the end of the day, they are the people who you do this all for,” he said.

“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.”

Italy ran out as the eventual winner, with rock band Måneskin’s song ‘Zitti E Buoni’ securing 524 points.

France’s Barbara Pravi came second, with Gjon’s Tears, of Switzerland, completing the top three.

Mr Newman has won praise for maintaining a brave face in the wake of the result.

He appeared in good humour as his score came in, laughing and smiling to loud cheers from the crowd.

Graham Norton, commentator for the BBC’s coverage, said: “I honestly don’t know what to say.

“You can hear the response in the hall.

“Good for you James Newman, good for you.”