Bargain Hunt viewers have blasted the latest round of contestants for employing a range of buying tactics. The reality TV show headed to Devon where Catherine Hawley was helming the programme.
On the latest episode of the BBC reality competition series friends Ellie and Chris went head-to-head with Nic and Caroline. After making their introductions, both sets of teams were assigned an expert to keep them on track in Exeter.
Bargain Hunt’s Ben Cooper was assigned to red team contestants Ellie and Chris while Kate Bliss made the blue team an all-women affair. However, neither was able to convince their squads to part with their money for a staggering 45 minutes.
Instead of purchasing items on first glance, both teams told antiques dealers they would be back later – perhaps hoping to get a sweeter deal. Interestingly, this tactic worked in the blue team’s favour as they later purchased a jewellery item at a “cheeky” discount price.
Another strategy the red duo favoured was to convince dealers they didn’t have enough money. While haggling, business development assistant Chris would say: “We don’t have a lot of money to play with today so we were just wondering what is the absolute best price you can do for us?”
Unfortunately, these methods of deception have ruffled the feathers of some fans, who have taken to social media to have their say.
One viewer wrote on the micro-blogging platform X: “’We haven’t a lot of money to play with!’ Well come back when you have!!”
A second said: “’We’re on a tight budget’ Mate, I’m sure they’ve all watched #BargainHunt and know you have £300 burning through your sky rocket.”
“Why wait? Just get on with it and buy for £45.#bargainhunt,” typed another.
A fourth questioned: “45 minutes in, what have they been doing #BargainHunt.”
Following the conclusion of the hunting period, both teams headed to auction where they attempted to make a profit with their items.
Friends Ellie and Chris were first up and managed to claw a successful £21 profit due to Ben’s bonus brooch buy but were beaten by the company owner and nurse duo, who made a stunning £105 profit.
Due to both teams keeping themselves out of the minus, they walked away with a coveted Golden Gavel each.
Tune into Bargain Hunt every weekday on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at 12.15pm.
