John Challis' widow moved by poignant tribute left at Only Fools legend's grave

Carol Challis, the widow of Only Fools and Horses star John Challis, has shared a poignant moment from her visit to his graveside over Christmas. Carol was deeply moved by the decorations left on his grave at Leintwardine in Herefordshire, including a wreath, flowers, and a small Christmas tree.

She posted on social media: "I've just had a little weep. The people at Wigmore Abbey, Steve, Andrea and Victoria went to see John early this morning and left all this Christmas loveliness for him. Never forgotten, Challis."

Carol was touched by the gesture and reflected on how much her late husband, who played the much-loved character Boycie, is still remembered. In a nostalgic tweet, she remembered loved ones she has lost, including her parents, nephew, and husband, saying: "Especially over Christmas, my thoughts have been with my much loved and missed mother Libby, father Denis, nephew Simon and my darling husband. All gone. All those memories."

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John Challis died in September 2021 at the age of 79 after a brave battle with cancer.

The family of John Challis, fondly remembered for his role as 'Boycie', shared a touching tribute at the time: "He will always be loved for being 'Boycie' and leaves a great legacy of work that will continue to bring pleasure and smiles for many years to come," as reported by the Mirror.

At the time of his passing, his family announced that he had died "peacefully in his sleep, after a long battle with cancer" and asked for donations to be made in his memory to Cuan Wildlife Rescue, Tusk, or the British Hedgehog Preservation Society, reports the Irish Mirror. Following his death, it was disclosed that John's will directed his estate to his fourth wife Carol, whom he married in 1995.

John had been previously married to Carol Robertson, Debbie Arnold, and Sabina Franklyn, but had no children. His gravestone pays homage to the beloved sitcom, with the inscription: "John Challis - actor - 1942-2021, I am here."

Fans of the adored British sitcom Only Fools and Horses will recall the memorable scene where psychic Elsie Partridge conducts a séance with Del Boy, Rodney Trotter, and Boycie. During the eerie silence, Elsie calls out for someone named Audrey... or is it Aubrey?

It's then when Boycie unexpectedly responds, saying: "I am here," unveiling his seldom-mentioned middle name.

Trigger, surprised, comments: "You never said your name was Aubrey," prompting Boycie's quick reply: "Nor would you if your name was Aubrey."