Bargain Hunt auctioneer Charles Hanson has pleaded not guilty to charges of assault and coercive behaviour against his wife.

Hanson, 45, appeared at Southern Derbyshire Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday for a short hearing in front of district judge Andrew Meachin.

His company Hansons Auctioneers has salerooms across the country including Banbury, where it is the longest-established saleroom in the town.

The auctioneer, who gave his address as Ashbourne Road in Mackworth, Derby, was accused of assault occasioning actual bodily harm between May 13 and 17 in 2020 and engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour between May 2015 and June 2023.

The television personality, who has also appeared on Flog It! and Antiques Road Trip, stood with his hands clasped throughout the hearing and spoke only to confirm his date of birth and enter his not guilty pleas.

Judge Meachin said the charges were “wholly unsuitable” for trial at the magistrates’ court and sent the case to Derby Crown Court.

Oxford Mail: Charles Hanson outside court Charles Hanson outside court (Image: PA)

Hanson, wearing a blue suit and red tie, was bailed to appear at the crown court on February 7.

He was told he must not contact his wife Rebecca Hanson or go to the family address in Quarndon except on one occasion to collect his personal belongings.

Hanson first appeared on Bargain Hunt in 2002 and his role includes advising one of the team as they try to turn a profit from buying and selling antiques.

The auctioneer visited Charlbury Primary School on Saturday, November 25 to host an Oxfordshire treasure hunt to help the school raise funds.