BBC Bargain Hunt viewers say same thing as new expert makes 'challenging' debut

BBC viewers had the same response as Serhat Ahmet made his debut as an expert. Serhat, who specialises in European porcelain from the period 1720 to 1935, made his first appearance alongside Izzie Balmer.

In the episode which aired on Monday, Serhat was tasked with leading the blue team on their mission to pick out £300 worth of items they hoped would garner a profit at the auction. After selecting their initial purchases, the teams were challenged to use any remaining money for another acquisition.

Should there be funds left over, it falls to the expert to snag a final piece for auction. Ordinarily, teams rely on their expert's eye for a bargain, but in a twist, the blue team left Serhat with just £1.

With only a single pound to his name, Serhat showcased top-notch negotiating prowess, snapping up a Royal Doulton Character Jug, which, to the team's delight, sold for £5, turning a £4 profit.

Serhat's ability to work wonders with just £1 has earned high praise from viewers, with one writing: "Great debut Serhat. They certainly put you under pressure with the £1 bonus buy but you got a decent profit from it. Looking forward to seeing you on future episodes."

Also lauding Serhat's performance, another posted: "Think you did really well with your £1. Good luck for the future on Bargain Hunt."

A third echoed: "Good to see a new face on the team, would like to know as much as you about such a variety of items. Excellent purchase for £1!!"

Despite being left with only £1, Serhat admitted he didn't mind the challenge, writing on X: "My very first Bargain Hunt and guess how much my lovely blues left me for my bonus buy?! I love a challenge!"

Bargain Hunt viewers may already recognise Serhat as has made appearances on other BBC Shows, including Antiques Roadshow, which he joined in 2018, and its celebrity spin-off.

Serhat is a second-generation antiques dealer who boasts over 25 years of experience in the industry, having started when he was just 15.

The expert, who hails from London, spent more than two decades working for his family's antiques business before setting up his own store in London in 2013.

as David Fergus announced that he has also joined the cast as an expert.

"Well it's official, I am one of the new experts on BBC's Bargain Hunt," he wrote on X. "It's a privilege to be part of this iconic show. My first episode is on Bank Holiday Monday."