Alesha Dixon's Debut As Strictly Judge

Alesha Dixon debut as a judge on Strictly Come Dancing the weekend drew 272 complaints to the BBC.

The BBC issued a statement supporting the 2007 winner turned judge, saying he was "delighted" with Dixon, who appeared in programs on Fridays and Saturdays.

"We are delighted with Alesha's debut as part of the jury in Strictly Come Dancing and many millions of people tuned in to watch the show," the BBC.

"Having won the competition in 2007, Alesha understands exactly what it takes to excel as a dancer, as well as knowing exactly what the celebrities are going contestants in the competition. His knowledge and direct experience brings a different perspective to the panel , which complements the judge set lineup. "

Dixon today shrugged off criticism of his debut in the weekend and said that will remain in the program.

The messageboards Strictly Come Dancing 5412 now have comments about the judges, which dates back to August, when it was announced that Dixon, 30, would replace Phillips, 66, who had been with the program since its inception, to provide a different perspective on the famous dancers.

Dixon won fame with girl band Mis-Teeq and Strictly Come Dancing won in 2007. Phillips led replacement age discrimination charges with the BBC.

"I'm not a quitter.'s Not in my nature to consider quitting," Dixon said today's Daily Mirror.

"We're starting a long way and I know I can help make the path smoother for some of the celebrities. You can not please all the people all the time," he said.

However, Dixon was criticized in the strict sense talkboards website over the weekend.

"I loved Alesha as a contestant and wanted to win in the last round - but not a replacement worthy of Arlene," said bigfanofsequins.

"Last night Alesha was perceived as a bit shouty and do not really useful comments on the floor. Arlene is no slouch in his seat and was perceived as a true professional. Who made the decision to dumb down the panel of judges made a big error. "

IreneBetty added: "While Alesha is very nice, I do not think that can really be a judge on something like this unless you have had for many years in the dance industry."

But Dixon also had his supporters. "My family thought Alesha was excellent in both programs," said BadgerBoy on the bulletin board.

"She understands that it is strictly a family entertainment show and speaks for the majority of people in the studio and more importantly at home."

Phillips said the new program was "too long", but retracted his replacement. "They hired Alesha because they wanted a different view of the viewer's voice and that's what he does. She was never hired to give a technical standpoint," said Sun.