Despite the sound quality issues that plagued the broadcast of the Eurovision Song Contest semi final on Wednesday, some much needed cheer has been provided by initial viewing figures for LRT, the Lithuanian broadcaster.

ELTA, the Lithuanian news agency, has reported that 1 in 3 Lithuanians were glued to their televisions to cheer on their entry in the semi final. Linas and Simona's What's happened to your love held high expectations in their home country, and helped the contest to achieve strong viewing figures.

Although their song did not reach the final, finishing in 16th place with 26 points, the Lithuanian entry can be proud to have helped the Eurovision Song Contest to achieve such strong ratings in their home country.

The news is also an early sign of success for the idea of a semi-final, ensuring that all countries have the chance to compete every year. The previous system of relegated countries sitting out the following year was thought to have been resulting in declining interest in the competition. The news from Lithuania is that the new system will be a success and ensure that the new format remains for future years.