Russia finally finished second with a tally of 303 points. They were followed home by Il Volo for Italy, who racked up 292 points. Competition interlopers Australia, who were invited to participate for the first time ever this year, came a respectable fifth with 196. Ireland's Molly Sterling put up an excellent showing in the qualifying round earlier in the week, but failed to qualify.

The Swedish entry was supported with a spectacular animation, which edged it ahead of the pack. The song clearly has hit potential. However its theme – as expressed by Zelmerlow in his acceptance speech – is essentially trite.

"I'm so happy and I want to say 'thank you' for voting for me," Zemerlow said. "I want to say we are all heroes, no matter who we love, who we are or what we believe in – we are all heroes." Sadly he did not refer to the fact that on the day Ireland had voted for Same Sex marriage.

This is Sweden's sixth win in the contest, leaving them just one win behind Ireland – we have won the contest seven times.