Humperdinck unveils his Eurovision song

The 75-year-old sings alongside a Spanish-style guitar accompaniment in Love Will Set You Free.

Humperdinck will be joined on stage by guitarist James Bryan at the May contest, in a performance staged by choreographer and former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips.

Humperdinck was the surprise choice to represent the UK following years of disappointment, with boy band Blue coming 11th in 2011 and Josh Dubovie a humiliating last in 2010.

Humperdinck said he had his “eyes on the prize” with the track, which was premiered on the BBC’s Eurovision website.

He praised the ballad for its “quality and longevity” and called it “a beautiful romantic song”.

He said of the contest: “Nobody knows what will happen, but I’m going to do my very best.”

Love Will Set You Free was recorded in London, Los Angeles and Nashville and has been written by Sacha Skarbek - who co-wrote James Blunt hit You’re Beautiful and Lana Del Rey’s Born To Die – and Grammy-winning producer Martin Terefe.

One listener wrote on the BBC’s Eurovision website: “Amazing. Instantly memorable, fantastic original tune, meaningful words, tingle-factor, great performance.”

However, another wrote: “The lyrics to this song are utter drivel.”