Auctioneer Charles Hanson marked a notable return to BBC's Bargain Hunt on Monday (May 12), prompting a unified reaction from viewers. Following his absence since his arrest the previous year, Hanson's reappearance comes just weeks after his unanimous acquittal in a high-profile domestic abuse trial.
The response from fans was overwhelmingly positive. One viewer expressed: "So glad Charles Hanson is back on Bargain Hunt," while another exclaimed: "Charles Hanson is back! ! !"
A third welcomed his return with: "Ooooh Charles is back now he's been acquitted," accompanied by a party emoji. Hanson, known for his appearances on Flog It! and Antiques Roadshow, had been cleared of allegations concerning coercive control and assault against his wife, Rebecca.
Throughout the trial, which started on February 10, Hanson maintained his innocence, countering that he was the actual victim behind closed doors, reports the Express.
The prosecution presented claims of Hanson employing violence against his pregnant wife, including putting her in a headlock. Hanson denied all charges and expressed relief that "the truth has finally come out" upon his acquittal.
Addressing reporters outside the courtroom, Mr Hanson said: "I'm delighted that after a year and a half the truth has finally come out. I can finally live my life again.
"I feel this burden has finally been lifted. It has been a tormentous time and all I want now is to readjust to what has been such an ordeal. I am so relieved that this is all over."
On February 28 at Derby Crown Court a jury of seven women and five men took four-and-a-half hours to unanimously find the Bargain Hunt star not guilty of charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, common assault and engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour.
The prosecution alleged they all took place against the 41-year-old radiographer, during their marriage when they were living in Church Road, Quarndon. He always denied the charges.
