The lyrics may have been a bit schlock, but a cheeky grin, engaging tune and superb arrangement brought victory to Norway in last night's Eurovision Song Contest. Over a decade on from Tor Endresen's famous "nul points" for the tragic San Francisco, Norway went with the old staples of a good narrative and some folksy presentation. Why those individuals behind the UK entry can't understand what works at the contest I'll never fathom. But as it has done so many times in the past, the formula paid off for fiddle-playing Alexander Rybak.

And for the first time in many years - largely due to the new split voting system - what I thought were probably the best two songs finished in first and second place. Iceland's "Is It True" by Johanna had shades of Alison Krauss. It was a strong song, well performed and with a great arrangement. In many other years it would have won. But quality has never been a guarantee at Eurovision. For example, I thought Laka's "Pokusaj" from last year's competition was nothing short of beautiful. And Spain's "El ChikiChiki" - also from 2008 - was filthy, but hilarious.

Very finally, a word for the Russians that staged the competition. The mid-point show was impressive. But the little video shorts dealing with "...decadent West's misinterpretation of wonderful Russian nation and peoples." Talk about protesting too much! I had a pretty neutral view of Russia. But after last night, I'm convinced they are all vodka-soaked, turnip-munching beggars, permanently living in sub-arctic weather conditions under the constant threat of KGB surveillance and arrest. If possession of Western music wasn't clearly a capital offence in Russia, someone should play them Ketty Lester's magical "Some things are better left unsaid."