Bargain Hunt expert issues apology as show descends into ‘lunacy’ – with string of complaints from fans

A BARGAIN Hunt expert was forced to issue an apology as the show descended into 'lunacy'.

The hit BBC One series sees two teams take on the challenge to get the best bargains for antiques and attempt to sell them at an auction for higher prices.

But the latest episode didn't quite go according to plan.

On the red team was retired couple Ben and Mandy, while Janet and her son Xander made up the blue team.

The programme came from Northamponshire as antique expert Thomas Forrester watched on.

Both teams were given £300 and sent on their way to make their purchases.

When it came to Bill and Mandy, the first purchased an oil lantern for £35 which saw them break even.

Their second time - a Clarice Cliff pot - was bought for £85 but ended up making a £20 loss at auction.

But Thomas was forced to issue an apology when he brought out the 'bonus' item he purchased for them.

He wheeled in an old 20th century sack barrow trolley which he purchased for £130.

However, it fetched just £45 at auction and not the estimated £180 Thomas had hoped for.

Apologising to the couple, he said: "Oh no, no. We can't have that.

"That's awful, I'm sorry."

It meant the pair made a total loss of £115 and lost to the red team - who barely won with just a £2 profit.

Meanwhile, Bargain Hunt viewers at home were left less than impressed by the scenes.

One said: "No way I'd be paying £130 for that."

A second wrote: "A sack trolley no chance."

"Sack barrow for £130 lunacy," said a third.

While a fourth commented: "I would have said £20 for that Thomas."

Bargain Hunt airs on BBC One and iPlayer.