Five million Archers fans tune in to hear Helen Titchener finally get cleared of murder in domestic abuse storyline

AT LEAST five million people are thought to have tuned in to listen the culmination of a dramatic domestic violence plotline on BBC Radio 4 soap The Archers last night.

Fans waited on the edge of their seats to hear Helen Titchener finally get cleared of attempting to murder her abusive and bullying husband Rob following a tense trial.

The story of Rob’s violent and controlling behaviour dominated the Radio 4 soap for over two years until Helen stabbed him five months ago.

Producers said the plot was inspired by a new law against “coercive and controlling behaviour” in relationships, and writers talked to lawyers, charities and abuse survivors during their research.

Last night’s 60-minute special was the first time in the Archers 65 years on air that a single show has been extended for an hour.

One fan, Paul Trueman, was so gripped by the story he set up the Helen Titchener (nee Archer) Rescue Fund that has so far raised £150,000 for victims of domestic abuse.

Several famous names were recruited as jurors – including Bafta winner Dame Eileen Atkins, Chariots of Fire star Nigel Havers and comedian Catherine Tate.

Shadow justice minister Jo Stevens MP tweeted: “Absolute applause to @BBCRadio4 @BBCTheArchers for brilliantly scripted/acted story of DV (domestic violence) and women in prison”.

Hundreds of listeners reported on social media they had hit the booze to steady their nerves during the jury’s tense deliberations.

Fans took to Twitter to celebrate when Helen was acquitted of one charge of attempted murder and one charge of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm on a majority verdict of 10 to one.

Elen Ewen tweeted: “Oh thank god, I can start listening to the Archers again. In your face Titchener,” while another wrote: “YES. Literally screaming at The Archers!!! I can’t bear it!”

Although Clare Grove said: “Months of how amazing/beautiful/brave/strong and doggedly independent she is now follows. Not sure I have the strength #The Archers #Archers.”

But Rob’s menacing last words to his wife as she left court were: “You haven’t got rid of me and as long as we have a child together you never will.”

The Archers was first broadcast in five pilot episodes in 1950, in the hope of educating farmers about modern agricultural methods to help feed a Britain still subject to food rationing.

Some five million people listen to the show, which is broadcast in six episodes a week.