In 1971 , and from 1974 until 1977 , Wogan provided the BBC 's radio commentary for the Eurovision Song Contest . He became known for his television commentary , which he handled first in 1973 , again in 1978 , then every year from 1980 until 2008 . He co-hosted the 1998 contest with Ulrika Jonsson , in Birmingham 's National Indoor Arena on 9 May . Wogan was the first person in the contest 's history to combine the roles of presenter and commentator . When not on stage , he was in his private booth providing the necessary TV commentary to BBC viewers . From 1977 until 1996 , Wogan hosted the UK selection show each year , returning to the job in 1998 , and again from 2003 until 2008 . In 1973 , 1975 , every year from 1977 until 1984 , and again in 1994 , Wogan also presented the UK '' Eurovision Song Contest Previews '' on BBC 1
the 1998 contest
Eurovision Song Contest 1998
Terry Wogan