Only Fools and Horses star John Challis cancels speaking tour due to ill health

Only Fools And Horses star John Challis has cancelled a speaking tour due to ill health.

Challis, 79, began a 30-date schedule which has now been axed “with immediate effect” after just one show.

The actor is most famous for starring as second-hand car dealer Boycie alongside Sir David Jason and Nicholas Lyndhurst.

In a statement to The Sun newspaper, his tour promoter A Way With Media said: “Due to ill health, John’s tour is cancelled with immediate effect.

“He completed the first show of his present tour, intending to continue. However, he has been advised to cancel further engagements.”

Challis became a household name as Terrance Aubrey Boyce during more than two decades of Only Fools and Horses from 1981 to 2003.

The cigar-smoking businessman, married to feisty Marlene – played by Sue Holderness – regularly butted heads with Sir David’s Del Boy.

Boycie also starred in a spin-off, The Green Green Grass, and also delighted viewers by attending fan events.

The actor was recently made an honorary citizen of Serbia – where the BBC sitcom was a huge hit.

He recently made documentary Boycie In Belgrade – investigating the show’s success in the country.

Challis is also known for playing Monty Staines in ITV sitcom, Benidorm.