Only Fools and Horses actor 'Boycie' worked 'tirelessly' to support dementia research

The charity Alzheimer’s Research UK has paid tribute to actor John Challis, best known for playing Boycie in TV sitcom Only Fools and Horses, who has died at the age of 79.

Mr Challis, who his family said died peacefully in his sleep after a ‘long battle with cancer’, played second-hand car dealer Terrance Aubrey Boyce in the popular sitcom.

His onscreen wife Sue Holderness said: “Marlene without Boycie - it’s unthinkable. John Challis was my partner on screen and stage for 36 years and my beloved friend. R.I.P. darling John. I will miss you every day.”

Sir David Jason, who played Del Boy in the comedy series, also paid tribute, saying: “Such sad news. John was such a lovely man, a fine actor and a friend for over forty years. Hard to think of the world without him. Condolences to his family at this incredibly sad time.”

Alzheimer’s Research UK revealed that during the 1980s, John Challis cared for his father, Alec, who died with Alzheimer’s disease in 1990.

Tim Parry, director of communications at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “John Challis was a much-loved figure of British comedy who not only brought joy to so many on-screen, but also worked tirelessly off-screen to support charitable causes, including Alzheimer’s Research UK.

“John juggled his acting career with caring for his father, Alec, who died with Alzheimer’s disease in 1990, and became a supporter of Alzheimer’s Research UK in 2014. In 2015, he supported our Hats off to Research campaign by donating a hat for auction and bravely shared his experiences of caring for someone with dementia in the media to raise awareness of the campaign.”

He added: “John also recorded good luck messages for our Virgin Money London Marathon runners, with the wit and warmth you’d expect from such a gifted comedic actor, and went above and beyond to raise awareness of dementia and the work of the charity. We send our thoughts to his family, friends and many fans and thank John for his charismatic and unwavering support for dementia research.”

A statement from John Challis’ family said: ‘John will always be remembered for being Boycie and he leaves a great legacy of work which will continue to bring pleasure and smiles for many years to come.’