John Challis set for Ludlow Festival stage

He has been a star of the small screen for decades as used car salesman Boycie in the hit BBC series Only Fools and Horses - now actor John Challis is fulfilling an ambition by performing at Ludlow Castle.

Mr Challis, who also starred in the spin-off series The Green Green Grass, based in the south Shropshire and north Herefordshire countryside where he has lived for the past 12 years, will make his Ludlow Festival debut as Malvolio in Shakespeare's comedy Twelfth Night.

But it is the chance to perform on stage in the open air at Ludlow Castle that will realise a personal ambition for the star.

Last year Mr Challis performed in his adopted home town for the first time in his career when he teamed up with co-star Sue Holderness for An Evening with Boycie and Marlene at Ludlow Assembly Rooms.

Mr Challis said: "I've always been fascinated by history and ever since I saw the fantastic castle in Ludlow, I've wanted to do something in that venue.

"Malvolio is a part I love and to be making my Ludlow Festival debut in such a great role means my wish has finally come to fruition."

Mr Challis said he had performed in the open air before at Regent's Park in London - and had memories of being caught out in bad weather.

He said: "When the rain comes down it trickles down your costume into your boots and you wonder just how long it will last. You feel for the audience."

The full line up for the festival is available by visiting www.ludlowfestival.co.uk

By Peter Kitchen