Jay Blades: BBC star charged with controlling and coercive behaviour

The Repair Shop presenter Jay Blades has been charged with controlling and coercive behaviour.

He has been bailed to appear at court next month.

Blades, 52, was arrested in December following an allegation of controlling and coercive behaviour. He was released on conditional bail.

A spokesman for the Crown Prosecution Service said: "The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised West Yorkshire Police to charge Jay Blades with controlling and coercive behaviour."

Blades is due to appear at Leeds Magistrates' Court on 13 March.

Controlling and coercive behaviour is a form of domestic abuse that involves a pattern of behaviour designed to make a victim feel controlled and intimidated.

The behaviour can include emotional abuse, such as name-calling or humiliation, as well as physical violence.

Controlling and coercive behaviour is a criminal offence and can carry a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

Blades is a well-known TV presenter and furniture restorer. He is best known for his work on the BBC show The Repair Shop.

He has also presented other shows, including Jay Blades: No Way Home and Jay Blades: The Auction.

Blades' arrest and charge have shocked many of his fans and colleagues.

A statement from The Repair Shop said: "We are aware of the charges against Jay Blades and are taking the matter very seriously.

"We will be monitoring the situation closely and will take appropriate action if necessary."