Archers fans mobilise in defence of Helen - early reactions to Sunday night's dramatic episode

The press dubbed it "The Day The Archers Broke Twitter" with 20,000 tweets to #thearchers hashtag, which trended for 4 hours, as listeners joined forces largely to support Helen after Sunday's dramatic events when Helen's attempt to leave abusive partner Rob went badly wrong.

Another quiet beat tonight. Some anti social behavior to deal with in Felpersham but that's it. #thearchers @BBCTheArchers

But that's about the only place that was...

Gut-wrenching scenes to make you stagger, Helen stabbed him with a dagger Lying in his bloodstained shirt Rob got his pie and his dessert.

Oh. Oh my God. Oh my God. Oh God. I'm shaking. Oh Helen.

Took me a while to realise I wasn't in Ambridge but in my kitchen, still grasping the wooden spoon I'd picked up 10 mins before. #thearchers

Within minutes, the case for the defence was in place

I know we are not allowed to tout, but I am more than prepared to represent Helen, along with most of the criminal bar...

Defences open include Loss of Control lack of intent and almost certainly diminished responsibility. I'm up for it!

OMG! Helen. Glad it's all been recorded. Cops will be able to listen to back episodes on iplayer & know what's been going on. #thearchers

Helen, I heard it all and will testify for you in court

And also... I am Helenicus?

#iamspartacus #thearchers I killed Rob!

We all stabbed him tonight. A collective lunge.

Ok Archer Fans let's get our alibi straight: We were ALL at The Bull & saw Rob stand up shout "I'm off to Peru forever!" & leave

I sure did. And my sour dough sandwich was great!

Some took refuge in humour

Well that is going to create a hole in the middle order for the coming season. I hope Alistair has a plan.

Appalled that my 1st thought was 'that's going to play havoc with the shop rota'. Stupid practical me. #thearchers @DumTeeDum @BBCTheArchers

Is anyone else worried about the pie in the oven?

and what exactly did happen to the custard?

Who's still thinking about #thearchers ?

Feeling today like I should be going to the police station to give a statement in defence of #Helen. @BBCTheArchers "Known her 20 years" etc

The twitter #TheArchers family are still pulling together for each other and Helen and Henry. Feel privileged to be part of this family

Listen to Sunday night's episode of The Archers

New Statesman: What would happen to Helen in court? A barrister explains

Helen and Rob: The story so far

Developing the story of Helen and Rob: Archers Editor Sean O'Connor writes

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