The outcome of the context in Helsinki was followed by a volley of firecrackers and fireworks in Belgrade. A little later crowds and motorcades gathered downtown in the capital and Serifovic's hometown Kragujevac to celebrate.

Vojislav Kostunica, the caretaker premier designated to again head the government, has directly congratulated the songstress: "Marija, all honours. The whole of Serbia is happy and proud because of you." President Boris Tadic sent a telegram an hour later.

Ukraine's dancing Lasha Tumbai, performed by Verka Serduchka, who bounced around the stage in a metallic costume, finished on 235 points.

Finland hosted this year's competition after monster rockers Lordi won last year's event in Athens - the Nordic country's first Eurovision win in 41 years. Lordi opened the broadcast from Helsinki with a fiery rendition of their victorious Hard Rock Hallelujah.

Ireland, a seven-time winner, finished last with five points. It was represented by Dervish, a traditional Irish band formed in the late 1980s.