Reality television personality Sacha Jones, who found fame on the 2024 series of Married at First Sight UK, has publicly responded to online critics questioning her selection to officiate her hometown's annual Christmas lights ceremony.
Festive plans and public backlash
The festive event in Walsall town centre is scheduled for Saturday, November 29. The day's celebrations will commence at 11am, building up to the main event: an Illuminate Projection Show running from 4.45pm to 5.30pm, culminating in Sacha switching on the lights.
The free community event promises a full day of entertainment, featuring a festive makers' market and a programme of live music and dance performances, continuing until 8pm.
However, the announcement of the Channel 4 star as the guest of honour sparked a mixed response on social media. Some commenters expressed disappointment, with one named Keith noting, "Even Wednesbury have got Marlon from Emmerdale." Another, Stacey, reminisced about "iconic" 90s celebrities, suggesting organisers should "Bring back the Gladiators and Reg from Corrie."
Community support and a sharp reply
Despite the criticism, many local residents leapt to Sacha's defence, praising her local advocacy work as a We are Walsall 2040 ambassador. One supporter wrote, "Sacha is one of a few who have a passion for the place and a genuine interest to help bring some much needed happiness to the area."
Another supporter, Nigel, described her as a "lovely lady and caring person trying to do the right thing."
Addressing the negativity directly, the 30-year-old reality star issued a concise, 26-word challenge to her detractors. She commented, "Well guys make sure you all come and they might be able to stretch to the A-listers next year. Can’t complain if you don’t support."
A hometown hero stands her ground
Sacha's response highlights a common tension in modern local events, where traditional celebrity choices are sometimes replaced by figures from reality television. Her retort serves as both a defence of her own connection to Walsall and a call to action for the community to support the event itself.
By invoking the possibility of "A-listers" in the future, she cleverly shifts the responsibility onto the public, suggesting that their attendance is crucial for the town to attract bigger names. The exchange has undoubtedly generated significant local attention for the upcoming Christmas lights switch-on in Walsall.
