Bargain Hunt is celebrating 25 years on screens (Image: BBC)
Tim Wonnacott, the bow tie-clad host of Bargain Hunt, led the show for 12 years – but now he has reportedly been noticeably omitted from a celebration of the programme.
In a 45-minute TV special commemorating the show’s silver jubilee next month, Wonnacott is given a mere 20 seconds of airtime. The 73 year old hosted the antiques game show from 2003 to 2015, succeeding the flamboyant David Dickinson.
He was a hit with viewers and participated in , as well as making appearances on Top Gear and Ready, Steady, Cook. Fans were shocked when he abruptly left Bargain Hunt “for personal reasons”.
TV executives stated that the show was “moving in a new direction” with antiques experts taking on the role as hosts instead. At the time, a statement read: “We would like to thank Tim Wonnacott for his dedication to Bargain Hunt over the last twelve-years and for the great expertise that he has brought to the show in that time.
“Bargain Hunt will be moving in a new direction next year utilising a team of experts who present a number of shows each. Tim continues to work with the on Antiques Road Trip.”
Tim will only be on the special episode for a few seconds (Image: BBC)
Following his abrupt exit, rumours swirled that a clash with producers and alleged staff complaints at Bristol were the cause. At the time, he simply stated: “I am pleased to have been part of Bargain Hunt for so many years and have thoroughly enjoyed every one of my, roughly, 1,200 programmes hunting out bargains with the contestants.
“Alongside continuing to voice Antiques Road Trip for the , I look forward to developing new programme ideas,” reports .
The will screen 25 Years Of Bargain Hunt next month with famous faces from over the years including Anita Manning, Philip Serrell, Kate Bliss, Danny Sebastian and Thomas Forrester recalling their best buys and favourite moments from the past.
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Tim Wonnacott presented the BBC show for many years (Image: Getty)
But one TV insider said Tim “barely gets a look-in”. He is reportedly only featured in brief clips totalling 20 seconds during the 45-minute tribute.
In that time antiques expert Thomas Forrester says his pal will be remembered for ”introducing the dickie bow” and his ”wonderful smile” and his ” despite his 12 years with the show.
Footage is played showing Tim as the original trendsetter, booting his leg high into the sky, followed by later clips of all cast members adopting the playful gimmick. Charlie announces to the audience: “It started with Tim Wonnacott!
25 Years of Bargain Hunt airs on BBC1, Thursday March 13.