A Place in the Sun host forced to apologise after buyers walk out on property search

A Place in the Sun presenter Leah Charles-King was met with a challenging start as she strived to locate the ideal Spanish abode for her clients on the Channel 4 favourite.

In Wednesday's instalment, Leah was tasked with assisting lifelong pals Helen and Nikki in their quest for the perfect holiday home in sunny Andalucia, Spain.

The duo, who have shared a friendship spanning over four decades, came equipped with a £150,000 budget to secure a property boasting at least three bedrooms, two bathrooms, distinctive character, and some coveted outdoor space.

Eager to immerse themselves in local culture and pursue year-round horse riding, the pair had high hopes, especially since Nikki had already sold her UK residence in anticipation of their eventual permanent relocation to Spain.

But the search hit an early snag when Nikki and Helen dismissed the first property without even crossing the threshold, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Priced just shy of £166,500, the property featured four bedrooms and a quaint courtyard garden, along with separate living and dining areas and a kitchen.

As they stood outside, Helen expressed their disappointment: "This is not what we were really looking for." Leah, undeterred, highlighted the property's merits, pointing out: "Why the location here is good is that you are 20 minutes away from the beach and you do have a lovely little town with traditional bars and shopping."

Yet, they barely ventured beyond the living room before Helen commented: "This is not what we were looking for at all and it doesn't have the feel at all. I can't imagine living space if you have a family and it doesn't seem to flow right so no."

Niki turned a critical eye to the property and remarked: "My initial thought is that, when I look out, it reminds me of a holiday camp so it's not for me and that is not what I want at all."

Though initially reluctant to even view the house, Leah did manage to persuade the pair to take a peek inside. When Leah inquired: "Right so do you want to bother seeing the rest of it? " the duo was steadfast in their response: "No, not really."

Leah had to express her regret and stated: "I'm sorry you are disappointed with this but on the positive side I know what you are into and what you are not into."

Later, addressing the camera, Leah confessed: "Well I've had worse starts to house hunts actually scratch that I don't think I have but to be fair I am a bit disappointed because I thought this house was the one but they weren't keen on it from the get go."