Bargain Hunt host Eric Knowles experienced a moment of sheer disbelief when a team on the beloved BBC programme set an unwanted record.
During an episode filled with unexpected events, participants Geraldine and Washington did not comply with the stipulations laid out by the show’s producers, having secured merely two items to take to auction.
The popular series puts two teams head-to-head in a quest to discover hidden gems that could yield lucrative returns, but this time things began somewhat tumultuously.
Prior to their decisive point at the auction house, Geraldine and Washington acknowledged their need for “needed positive energy” given that they had only a pair of items up for bidding.
However, a dose of harsh reality was soon dispensed by host Eric himself. He addressed the duo, saying: “I’ve got to say, you have made Bargain Hunt history by virtue of you only managing to buy two items.”, reports the Express.
Their scavenging efforts yielded a prized Doulton jug and a set of vintage tennis rackets, yet they fell short of completing their designated mission.
Unfortunately for them, Eric had to enforce the show’s penalties, declaring remorsefully: “The fact you were unable to buy your big spend and your big challenge means that you get penalised, I’m sorry to say.”
Their inability to meet the required spending amount resulted in an initial £75 deficit, as per programme guidelines. Highlighting the rule, he elucidated: “The ruling is that, because you didn’t do the £75 spend, you start with minus £75.”
The team’s situation continued to deteriorate following the major setback, with the pair ultimately making a mere £1 profit at auction, as reported by the Daily Star.
However, Charles offered them a lifeline in the form of an Art Deco clock valued at £200, which had the potential to turn their fortunes around.
Commenting on the item, he said: “When you want to buy something Art Deco, it’s always in demand. When you want to buy something which is silver and enamel, that’s very much in demand as well today. People love silver and enamel, put the two together, a gorgeous Art Deco timepiece. Do you like it?”
The duo made the bold move to purchase the piece, which ultimately proved wise as the clock sold for an impressive £380 at auction, netting them a £130 profit.
Despite their triumph, viewers responded with dissatisfaction on social media. One disgruntled viewer wrote: “Wasn’t worth the hype […] red team were gifted a win by @HansonsAuctions – but they shouldn’t have been allowed a bonus but if they hadn’t bought three items!”
Another viewer expressed frustration, stating: “Shouldn’t have been allowed to compete with only a £75 forfeit. Others can just do that now, but like the red team, still win! Should have been disqualified in my opinion!”
On the other hand, some viewers celebrated the episode’s excitement, with one person commenting: “Brilliant! This has got be the best episode ever! What larks!”
Bargain Hunt airs weekdays at 12:15pm on BBC One