X Factor star Olly Murs has been linked to a fiery political row as a Scottish council paid him £5,000 to switch on their Christmas lights after cutting 500 important jobs.
The singer, who has had success with his recent single ‘Please Don’t Let Me Go’, has been paid the amount to switch on lights in Paisley, Scotland. However, politicians have been quick to criticise the decision, which comes after news that the council involved has recently had to make 500 workers redundant and make cuts of £24 million.
Many were keen to criticise Renfrewshire Council for the decision. Labour councillor Jim Sharkey said: “There are plenty of people in Paisley who would have done a better job than Olly Murs. We have an embarrassment of riches as far as talent is concerned.”
However, the X Factor singer handled the dispute with grace, announcing that he would be happy to donate the fee to local charities. He said: "I'm very lucky to be able to do this for a living. I've always had great support from fans in Scotland when I perform there and I'll always be very grateful for that.”
"I've decided to give the fee for the show in Paisley away to two local charities, which I know will use it to help people that really need it. I'm really looking forward to performing in Paisley and switching on the lights, and I hope everyone has a great night."
Olly Murs released his debut self-titled album this Monday, and his second single, ‘Thinking Of Me’ was made available on November 19th.
You can view the official video for ‘Thinking Of Me’ below:
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