Eurovision-wannabes will be invited to send their auditions to the BBC website – before the closing date of 21st of November 2008. The search is open to all artists both amateur and professional. Entrants will be scrutinised by Andrew and a team of music industry professionals, who’ll then decide on a shortlist of six finalists. He and his experienced team will be able to pick and mix the artists in order to put together the best acts. Once Andrew has seen the various artists he will begin work with a top lyricist and record producer to create the song for Eurovision.

The battle to represent the UK will climax in a series of live shows Your Country Needs You on BBC One, hosted by Graham Norton, where the viewers will have the final say on who will pick up the baton for the country in the Eurovision extravaganza being held in Moscow next May.

Andrew Lloyd Webber says: “In my life I have never shied away from the impossible and this looks like the biggest mission impossible of all time, but with the might of the BBC and the British public behind me (not to mention Graham Norton) who knows what will happen? Win, lose or draw, I am looking forward to every minute of it and I hope everyone has a fun time along the way.”

Jay Hunt, Controller BBC One said: “I am thrilled Andrew will be championing the country's search for a star to storm this year's Eurovision.”

Elaine Bedell, Controller Entertainment Commissioning said: “I'm delighted that Andrew's agreed to step up to the mighty challenge of restoring some pride in our musical entry to this much loved national event. It certainly needs his passion and vision, and we can't wait for the search to begin!”

For entry details please go to the official website.

Andrew Lloyd Webber is a highly successful composer whose works include the musicals Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar, Phantom of the Opera and Evita.