Jo Hamilton was one of over 700 sub-postmasters prosecuted between 2000 and 2014 due to issues with the Post Office's faulty Horizon accounting system. Her story, like many others, is depicted in the ITV drama Mr Bates vs The Post Office. Initially believing she was solely at fault for discrepancies in her accounts, Jo tried to cover the growing deficits by using her own money, unaware that others were facing similar problems.

After reporting a £36,000 deficit, Jo was suspended, dismissed, and charged with theft. At Winchester Crown Court, she accepted a plea bargain, pleading guilty to false accounting in exchange for the theft charge being dropped.

As the truth emerged, Jo joined other postmasters in a lengthy battle against the Post Office. The public's strong reaction to the drama has led to significant policy changes, but Jo and her fellow campaigners continue to fight for full exoneration and compensation for all affected.