The jury final of the Junior Eurovision was this evening delayed for more than an hour after a power outtage interrupted the event during the second song performance. 

The power went out as the Bulgarian participant was in the middle of her performance. The large shed at the old Marsa shipbuilding was left in total darkness for around 15 minutes. Power was then restored but the show was delayed by a full hour, until technicians got all of their equipment up and running again.

Presenter Sander Agius tried his best to entertain the crowd until the damage was repaired. At one point the crowd was singing 'Old MacDonald had a farm.' The show has now resumed and the Bulgarian participant gave a second - uninterrupted - performance. The show is continuing with the other participants.

A source said that the power cut was an embarrassing moment for the Maltese organisers, including Home Affairs Minister Manuel Mallia, who is attending the event and who looked none too pleased by what was happening. 

An Enemalta spokesman told The Malta Independent that the corporation was not supplying any energy for the festival. The spokesman said that the corporation did not experience any faults in the Marsa area.

The Junior Eurovision proper will be held tomorrow but 50% of the vote will be determined by a jury of experts tonight.