Rip Off Britain sees TV icon step back from BBC series after 15 years
BBC’s Rip Off Britain will return to tackle pressing consumer issues, but one presenter from the usual trio will not appear.
Presenter Angela Rippon usually fronts Rip Off Britain alongside Gloria Hunniford and Julia Somerville.
However as the new series is confirmed by BBC and will air in November, Angela has stepped back leaving just Gloria and Julia to present.
A show insider revealed exclusively to The Sun that the door is still open for a return from Angela. They said: “She is currently focusing on other projects but the show looks forward to having her back in future series.”
The new series will air 15 years after the first episode, with a focus on special scam episodes as part of Scam Safe week on the BBC.
As well as scams and fraud, the series will see the ladies take a look at how miscommunication between vets and insurers is leading to pet owners losing out when their animals get ill.
In the lead up to Christmas, Gloria and Julia will explore how a damaged passport could sabotage getaways, including the story of a couple from Newport who were barred from boarding their flight after an airline employee told them to remove a sticker.
There’s also several cases across the series of homeowners coming home to flooded houses, and in one case flooded with raw sewage.
The team take a closer look at why insurers are refusing to payout for damages.
They’ll also investigate the perils of rapidly spreading bamboo taking root under homes, and the team will help a former bank employee from Southampton track down her lost £45,000 pension pot.
Speaking about the new series of Rip Off Britain, Gloria Hunniford shared: “I’m delighted to be back in a bid to help the nation once again.
“Our scam specials will really help audiences to keep vigilant, and be prepared for the clever ways these criminals can get hold of our details, our hearts, and our money!”
Julia Somerville added: “What I love about Rip Off Britain, is that there is a story for everyone.
“You might not think you would have a consumer related issue, but we’ve got everyone and everything covered.
From pet owners, home owners and anyone with a bank account there will be something we will be able to help with, or raise awareness.
“Everyone is a consumer and we’re here to get you all the information you may need.”
Also commenting on the new series, Rachel Platt, Commissioning Editor for BBC Daytime shared: “At a time when many across the UK face increased financial pressure, Rip Off Britain is more important than ever.
“I’m delighted we are back investigating and exposing the rip offs – both big and small – that are costing British consumers. With scams evolving, our special episodes are here to educate and inform audiences to help them protect both themselves and those they love.”
Rowland Stone, Executive Producer BBC Studios, commented: “In the lead up to Christmas, and with the cost of living continuing to rise, Rip Off Britain is a much-welcomed return.
“Once again the team is back scouring the UK for the latest consumer issues affecting our audiences.
“The latest series looks at the fine print in No Win, No Fee cases, the rising costs of ground rent, plus much more.”
Rip Off Britain returns to BBC One and iPlayer on 11 November at 10.45am.