X Factor's Ruth Lorenzo joins Eurovision 2014 line-up

Former X Factor finalist Ruth Lorenzo will represent her native Spain in the 2014 Eurovision Song Contest, after she triumphed in the country's national final on Saturday night.

Ruth, who took part in the 2008 series behind the likes of JLS and Alexandra Burke, fought off competition from four other acts with her self-penned ballad Dancing In The Rain.

She will attempt to bring Spain their first Eurovision victory since 1969 when she performs the track - which is partly in Spanish and partly English - at the contest in Copenhagen on May 10.

As one of the 'big five' countries who make the largest financial contribution to the contest - along with the UK, France, Germany and Italy - Spain are automatically qualified for the final, meaning Ruth will not have to compete in one of the semi-finals in order to stand a chance on the big night.

The 31-year-old, who was born in Murcia in southern Spain, finished fifth in the 2008 series of The X Factor, and is best remembered for her powerhouse version of Prince's Purple Rain.

However her time on the show was not without controversy, notably in one sing-off which saw her chosen by the judges over hot favourite Laura White - a decision which caused such an outcry it was even debated in parliament.

Ruth has gone on to enjoy chart success in Spain as well as becoming a songwriter.

She is not the only 2008 X Factor contestant who is hoping for Eurovision glory this year - with Eoghan Quigg, who finished third in that series, in line to represent Ireland at the contest.

The 21-year-old will compete in the Irish national final on Friday February 28 with his track The Movie Song, for a chance to follow in Jedward's footsteps.

The 2014 contest is taking place in Denmark following their victory in the 2013 event with Emmelie de Forest's song Only Teardrops.

No UK representative has been confirmed yet, although the BBC has said that the artist and song will once again be selected internally.

Last year's UK act, Bonnie Tyler, finished in 19th place with her track Believe In Me.

Watch Ruth perform her Eurovision entry below.

http://youtube.com/v/x2Szs-ag-_4