Today we have some awesome behind the scenes photos from the Only Fools and Horses Dates episode.

This is the episode where we first meet Raquel under the Waterloo Station clock. Also we have the superb scene where Rodney takes out the Reliant Regal for a so called “cruise”, with the fantastic character “Nervous Nery’s”. They get chased by some local lads or “punks” according to Rodney. Only fools and horses dates episode is considered to be a turning point episode as it starts to introduce permanent female interest for Delboy

Above all, having these new photos continues to breath life into our favorite sitcom. As Perry said to me the other day “Here is more gold dust” So true! When you consider these photos are being found from filming the Christmas special from 1988 called Dates.

Only Fools And Horses Episode Dates : Behind the scenes

So lets remind ourselves of the episode, that was said to be the late John Sullivan’s favourite episode. Dates episode actually won a BAFTA for “Best Comedy” Award in March 1989.

Memorable moments are Trigger’s unexpected success with his date from a local computer dating agency. Del boy getting the wrong woman on his blind date at Waterloo Station. Rodney taking the initiative by going for the ‘James Dean’ look. The rough look eventually ends in disaster due to an encounter with a gang of punks. They have a softop cortina and decide to chase Rodney while he is driving his 3 wheel van.

Filming Only Fools and Horses Dates episode car chase

In addition to the pictures and video, lets recall the great script to accompany these photos. So you can fully recall the scene…

Punks. “Whats that?” they exclaim while pointing to his 3 wheel van.

Rodney. Those punks back there, they’re used to people running scared from ’em. They don’t scare me Nerys. This is my jungle and I’m at the top of the tree.

Nerys. Why are we going so fast?

Rodney. I love speed!

Nerys. You said we were gonna cruise!

Rodney. Yeah, but I like to cruise quickly.

Rodney still being pursued by the Cortina.

Rodney. Oh no! Aaaaaaaggggghhhhh!

Here is some additional behind the scenes photos. Notice you may recognise one of the extras and filming crew in this photo. Enjoy looking at the scene when Rodney flies over the road being chased through the roadworks from an angle never seen before.

After that, Del is now arrested

Del. Look, can you take me round to Herrington Road, I gotta see someone. It’s left up here.

Read the complete dates script here

More behind the scenes facts from Dates

The road used in Dates during the chase by the gang of “punks” in the Cortina is actually Talbot Road, Iseworth, Richmond in real life. Therefore you can still visit the area where the filming takes place.

In addition, we have several more photos on the Dates episode page.

Finally, here is the scene with Del and the computer dating agency is 46 Old Market Street, Bristol.

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While exploring some new behind the scenes photos sent to me the other day from Perry. Some additional photos appeared. They were from ‘Yuppy Love’ Only Fools and Horses episode which was aired in 1989.

Now being so close to the Dates Christmas special, (Make sure you take a look at the Only Fools and Horses Dates article) it may well of been filmed on the same day. It’s possible that sometimes locations are combined to keep costs down.

Yuppy Love Episode Overview

Previously Del had met Raquel in Dates, Now its Rodney’s turn to meet a woman to settle down with. This is so series 6 and 7 can change direction and have Del and Rodney settling down in life. Therefore Yuppy Love allows Rodney to meet Cassandra.

You’ve seen her house and the snob in you came racing to the surface and you thought: “Ooh, how can I take her back to Nelson Mandela House?”

Del : Yuppy Love : Only Fools And Horses

So lets take a look at this superb episode and how the filming took place when Del and Rodney admired the road where you “got stockbrokers, private doctors… Porsches! This is the crème de la menthe of our community!

Cop a load of this, bruv. I mean, this is what you call living. You know, I bet these gaffs have guest suites, swimming pools, jacuzzis! What have we got?
A put-you-up, a damp patch and a jakarsey!

Yuppy Love Episode is more than the bar scene

Only Fools and Horses has several amazing moments. most famously in this episode where Del crashes through the wine bar. But often the build up to the episode and in Dels words reveals Rodney has a snobbish attitude. Rodney is told by Del not to be ashamed of where he lives.

Yuppy Love Script

So You can download the Yuppy Love Script here. But lets just remind ourselves of the superb banter between Del and Rodney near the end of the episode. Del says he can read Rodney like a book so puts £20 to guess what happened tonight….

Del: I’ve got 20 notes here – look, there they are – they say that I can guess what happened tonight. G’on then,you cover that.

Rodney: Alright, go’n then, know-all,tell me!

Del: Alright. That Mickey Pearce said that this Cassandra sort lived in a right nice drum.

Rodney: Yeah, so?

Del: So this is what I think happened. You’ve seen her house and the snob in you came racing to the surface and you thought: “Ooh, how can I take her back to Nelson Mandela House?” So on your way home, you’ve made her drive up some right posh road – somewhere like The King’s Avenue – and you stopped at some right nice little mansion and you pretended that’s where you lived!

Rodney: You don’t half talk a load of rubbish!

Del: Is that the truth?

Rodney: Yes!

Del: Thank you very much indeed. That’s it, Rodney, you see, you’re like an open book, my son – and it’s thicker than my Filofax!

In conclusion, the photos from the Only Fools and Horses Appreciation Society were mainly of filming the dates episode. But these two photos which I initially thought were of the same time, weren’t. Never was the kings Avenue mentioned in Dates. But it was mentioned several times in Yuppy Love. So we assume it was in that BBC episode this took place.

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I hope you’re enjoying this series of photo discoveries from Perry. Today we look Behind The Scenes of Only Fools and Horses : A Royal Flush.

A Royal flush was the episode that divided opinion. Is it because for the first time we see the true Del Boy. He appears to let himself down along with embarrassing his family. Or is this Christmas Special produced to just show how kind and soft Del Boy becomes once he moves into a steady family life with Raquel.

If you missed them already we have had some amazing behind the scenes photos from Dates and Yuppy Love, so before you go any further get your peepers on them first.

A Royal Flush Overview

This 75 minute episode has been cut to death sadly. It was originally shown in full in 1986 as a Only Fools and Horses Christmas Special. With 18.8 million watching the episode it became as usual, one of the biggest comedy viewing of the year. The Royal Flush episode shows how Rodney bumps into the daughter of the Duke of Maylebury (Called Vicky or Victoria) while working at the market with Del.

The episode has some lovely continuity connections that include June the mother of Debbie from Zimbabwe House who turns up as Del’s bird to the delight of Rodney (see Happy Returns for why this is so embarrassing for Rodney). Timeless comedy.

Man in Market. They can’t be top quality, they’re too cheap!

Del. How can anything be too cheap, you plonker?

Man in Market. Listen, I’m not a plonker!

Del. No? So what you doing, an impression?

Del sees an opportunity to get in with Royalty and so goes out of his way to project Rodney. He remarkably obtains a pair of tickets to the sold-out production of Carmen. If you ever go to the opera to watch Carmen, it’s very hard not to want to whistle along to the parts Del Boy infamously whistled too.

A Royal Flush Behind the Scenes

So lets look in detail at the market scenes. Weather there is any truth in the rumour that the market scene has an famous extra in the background. Apparently in a green woolly hat and glasses is Norman Pace from the comedy duo Hale and Pace. I can’t confirm that one. But what can be confirmed is the Market scene was not filmed at a market!

Market Before Filming A Royal Flush

The Market After Filming A Royal Flush

Before Rodney reveals his name to Vicky, the scene plays out this way. The timing of Trigger is a gem….

Vicky. I’m sorry…?

Rodney. Rodney.

Trigger. (Calling across) Wotchyer Dave.

Rodney. (To Vicky) No. My name is Rodney, he’s just very thick!

It’s amazing to think that the market scene is totally made up by the production team

Perry Aghajanoff

A Royal Flush Script

Feel free to download the A Royal Flush Script here. But lets just remind ourselves of the superb script where Del and Rodney are at the Carmen show have pre-show drinks…. Rodney, being the tallest, spots June over the heads of the crowd. He doesn’t recognise her immediately.

Rodney. I don’t believe it!

Vicky. You don’t believe what?

Rodney. This is the Royal Opera House and someone’s ordered a kissogram!

Del. Never! Where? (Del peers through the bodies and spots June.)

Del. (To Rodney) You saucy little… That’s my bird!

Rodney. (Horrified) No! Please Del, it’s not!

Del. It’s Junie! You remember June! Lives over in Zimbabwe House!

Rodney. (Feels like crying) Del, I used to go out with her daughter.

Only Fools And Horses A Royal Flush Outtake

Del. (Calling to Loader) Ready when you are, John!

Loader. (Calling back) Do you mean ‘pull?’

Del. Sorry, Paul! In your own time, son!

However with so many outtakes and cuts floating around, we don’t want to forget the best parts of the script. Sometimes you can stop watching an episode and forget its where some of the most classic parts are shown. So let’s just enjoy a few parts of the script again. Here is a joke that today wouldn’t make much sense unless you remember the days when banks wouldn’t open on Saturdays

Rodney. Where d’you get that gun from?

Del. I borrowed it from Iggy Higgins.

Rodney. Iggy Higgins? But Iggy Higgins robs banks!

Del. I know! But it’s Saturday!

Only Fools and Horses A Royal Flush Uncut

This episode was cut to shreds. If you want to see all the uncut parts head over to our Only Fools cut guide part 9 then part 10 and finally part 11. A Royal Flush is one of the most edited episode in the series. In all, 18 minutes are cut. Even the sound has been messed about with as it was recorded without a studio audience laughter track originally.

Worst or Best Only Fools Episode?

In conclusion, I still hear a few fans say they love this episode. It isn’t everyone favourite though. Writer John Sullivan was asked If he would of changed anything about Only Fools and Horses. His reply was he wouldn’t of made A Royal Flush BBC episode.

Above all, what are your thoughts? He isn’t alone, additionally David Jason who played Del Boy, and Only Fools director and producer Ray Butt all consider this to be the worst episode made.

Have your say in the comments below.

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‘I saw a woman spit yesterday!’

Sarah Duncan is an actress and novelist, known for a variety of roles on television including appearances on gameshows such as Countdown (1982) and Pointless (2009). But to you and me she is best known for her role as Lady Victoria in the classic episode A Royal Flush.

Recently I was lucky enough to catch up with Sarah, to find out a little bit more about the Lady, who nearly ended up marrying a Trotter, including what it was like to star in the show and what we can look forward to seeing in the future.

Sarah Duncan Actress Interview

Me: Sarah, on behalf of the fans, thank you for allowing me to conduct this short interview with you. We’ll start off with your role in Only Fools and Horses.

Me: How exactly did that come about?

Sarah: I’d been acting for a couple of years at that point, mainly theatre – including six months in the West End in Passion Play with Leslie Philips who was surprisingly shy and not like his onscreen persona at all. My agent – who had represented Lennard Pearce (Grandad) – asked if I’d like to audition for OFAH so one Monday I went to the BBC and met John Sullivan, Ray Butt (who was then the producer and director) and Tony Dow and got on really well, on Thursday I heard I’d got the part, and the following Monday I was in wardrobe getting kitted up.

Tony Dow told me later that he’d been cross with John and Ray because they’d more or less told me I’d got the part at the audition, and they’d still got two more days of auditioning other actresses to go. Apparently on the Wednesday there had been another actress who they’d also really liked, but decided to choose me because the other one was very beautiful and out of Rodney’s league!

Me: Are there any tales you can remember from behind the scenes?

Sarah: Lots!  It was a very happy time. The first day of filming was at the market.  It was a very cold day and I had to sit on a stool for what seemed like ages – you can see me shivering.  Then we filmed the scene at the caff.  On the first take I was so cold and hungry I tucked into the bacon and eggs and then for the rest of filming I had to remember all the times I’d taken a mouthful for continuity and do it again. I was sick of bacon and eggs by the end. Nick Lyndhurst told me afterwards how to look as if you were eating without actually doing it, which came in handy for the dinner party scene. He was very kind, especially when he realised I hadn’t done much acting for television before, and gave me lots of help with the technical side of things.

Me: What is your favourite episode and why?

Sarah: To Hull and Back.  It’s funny, it’s poignant – all the things that make OFAH great.

Me: Why do you think the show is so very popular with all ages?

Sarah: It’s about families, isn’t it?  And dreaming and wanting to get on in life, but never quite getting there.  I think we all do that.  And of course, it is very very funny too.

Me: Do you still get recognised as the character?

Sarah: Yes, amazingly. My hair is much, much shorter nowadays but lots of people pick up on my voice.

Me: Do you still keep in touch with any of the actors?

Sarah: No.  I left acting the year afterwards and moved to live in the countryside.

Me: Do you think the relationship between your character and Rodney, would have worked?

Sarah: I think their backgrounds were too far apart really.

Me: Do you have any memorabilia from the show as keepsakes?

Sarah: I used to have two scripts but when I was moving house I decided they ought to go to someone who would appreciate them rather than being kept in a drawer.  I contacted the OFAH appreciation society and now Perry, who runs it, has them.

Me: What can we look forward to seeing in the future from you?

Sarah: Well I haven’t acted for years!  Nowadays I write novels, which are available in bookshops and online at Amazon etc.

By Jordan Gale,

With thanks to Sarah Duncan.

Twitter: @JordanGale94

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The Only Fools and Horses pub name is The Nags Head.

Is it a coincidence it’s called Nags Head to relate to the reference Horses in the sitcom title (which originally had a working title “Readies”)?

3 real Nags Head pubs to have a pint in

If you want to have a pint in a real location of the nags head then head over to this article for an original (used in It Never Rains episode) Nags Head Location

Fancy a drink in the Nags Head for “Miami Twice Part 1, The American Dream” episode? Head over to The Middlesex Arms

Or how about a drink at the White Horse Pub? This Pub was used as the Nags Head in episode “Dates”. see Dates Nags Head

The Nags Head Pub and it’s most memorable moments is the subject we consider in today’s article by Only Fools and Horses fan Ryan Howes

Not Many episodes without the Hags Head pub

The Nags Head pub, which Del Boy, Rodney, Uncle Albert, Raquel, Cassandra and all the others used to drink in on a regular basis. It is such an important location during all the series of Only Fools and Horses. We see scenes filmed in a pub in almost every episode, but what were the most memorable moments?

From Raquel the stripper to Rodney’s stag night, the pub provided some memorable moments. These Nags Head scenes will live with us forever and it’s these moments which really helped the series of Only Fools and Horses become such a wonderful piece of comedy. There were some painful, emotional, hilarious and simply classic moments based in the Nags Head pub in Peckham and it’s those moments which I intend on re-living throughout this article.

Did You Know That Rodney and Cassandra’s Wedding Reception was Held At The Nags Head?

One of the all-time greatest moments based in the Nags Head Pub, has to be Rodney and Cassandra’s wedding reception held in the hall above the bar, this was arguably the greatest pub moment of all time, but what made it so special?

For me and I’m sure many others, it’s got to be towards the end of that certain scene where Rodney and Cassandra are about to leave to go on their honeymoon. They have just got married. You can see Del and Rodders both pause for a few seconds and are looking directly at one another from opposite ends of the room.

From this point on they know, it will be different as this is the start of Rodney’s new life. After a short pause, we see Rodney turns his back and leaves the room, you have Del, standing in the centre of the hall. The amazing Holding Back the Years by Simply Red is grabbing our heartstrings.  With such a beautiful song being played in the background you feel the emotions. Throughout this wonderful scene, the audience (although silent) played a huge role in making this moment so memorable.

Why? Because normally Only Fools’ doesn’t contain scenes which are classed as emotional because it’s just so funny, however, this scene was the complete opposite, not funny, just so perfectly emotional.

Did you know; at the time of filming, the audience wasn’t laughing and Tony Dow (the director at the time) said to John Sullivan; “the audience isn’t laughing?” the response from John was spot on; “Tony, they aren’t laughing, because their crying”… and out came the tissues.

Lovely Jubbly in it!

At first, this was scheduled to be the last episode of Only Fools and Horses, with Rodney about to leave Del and move on in his new life, living with Cassandra. With Rodney having a new life and a new job with Cassandra’s dad’s printing firm. However, because John Sullivan knew he couldn’t leave it at that, he decided to bring them back for another series to show Rodney and how he is getting on in his new life. This was only right. The reality of married life as we all know is not so easy. Clearly, things weren’t as Cushty as poor old Rodney would have liked.

There are just so many unforgettable moments which are based at the Nags Head Pub, I don’t know where to start, but I feel it’s a must, that I embarrass poor old Del for this funny moment which occurred during Uncle Albert’s birthday party at the pub, unfortunately for Del things didn’t go as Cushty as he would have hoped. The moment he finds out Raquel (who he’s only just met) is a stripper… For Del, it’s almost a heart breaker but for everyone else, it’s another superb moment to add to the memory bank!

Nags Head surprise For Uncle Albert

After seeing Raquel beginning the strip on Uncle Albert as the surprise birthday present for him, Del feels let down, embarrassed, angry and upset and yet again it looked to be Bonjour to yet another of his birds. However, it wasn’t to be Bonjour to Raquel, as later that episode we found out that Del actually was still interested in her, and as ever with Derek Trotter around, things weren’t that easy, as he was later arrested… Let’s leave it at that, shall we!

Cos’bloody’mic!  – What a Plonker you really are Del!

The pub played a huge role for all the characters during the making of Only Fools and Horses, and there are still so many top moments… From Rodney winning a date with nervous Nerys to the Trotter family walking into the pub as millionaires for the first time!

The Peckham pub played a key role

Although the greatest Fools and Horses moment of all time didn’t occur in the Nags Head, there are many moments which were filmed in the Nags Head Pub that are deservedly placed high on people’s Only Fools and Horses top moments list. This just shows what a key role the pub played in making OFAH such a brilliant piece of comedy and is still watched by millions across the globe today.

People may ask what made the Nags Head Pub so great, I believe it’s mainly down to Mike Fisher the pub’s friendly landlord, although the pub had many bar workers before Mike arrived on the scene, I still believe it was his character which made the pub such a popular location to film Only Fools And Horses and this is why I say Mike Fisher made the pub so great with some luvvly jubbly moments!

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Big Brother Episode Review

Brief: After flogging one legged turkeys from the back of a three wheeled van, Del’s confident at last he’s onto a winner with Trigger’s consignment of Old English vinyl briefcases. How can his brother Rodney even think of abandoning the high flying world of trading for a real job. The very first insight into the life of the Trotters.

Transmitted: 15.9.1981
Duration: 30 minutes
Viewing Figures: 9.2 million

Del employs younger brother Rodney as a member of Trotters’ Independent Traders, despite warnings from his business colleagues.
When Rodney decides to become the Trotters’ financial adviser – monitoring the accounts and keeping Del’s dodgy dealings in check – Del has second thoughts about their partnership.

Cracks show in the partnership when Rodney inadvertently bungles a deal with Trigger. But despite Del’s anger, it turns out that Rodder’s advice would have prevented the purchase of 25 briefcases that are locked with the serial number inside.

Del and Rodney have yet another row and ‘Little Bruv’ plans a career change. Desperate to make his mark on the world, Rodney decides to leave for Hong Kong – a great plan, if only he’d remembered his passport.

Episode Observations

• In Big Brother and “Second Time Around”, a Crystal Palace scarf can be seen hanging in the hallway of the flat. I believe that this is the only series in which the scarf appears, and Crystal Palace, never mind the fact that anyone in the flat may support them, is never mentioned again. Instead, Del mentions Chelsea quite a few times and it seems that Reg Trotter supported Millwall.
• In Big Brother with regards to the fact that the theme music was different in the beginning, the credits at the end of the Series One episodes still state that the music was composed by Ronnie Hazelhurst, as opposed to John Sulivan, even though the familiar theme tune has been dubbed over.
• In Big Brother, In the opening credits for all episodes it shows the van outside the flats with rust, yet reliants are made from fibreglass so how does fibreglass rust?
• In Big Brother, Del introduces Rodders to Trig as if they have never met,yet Trig and Del have grown up together,surely their paths would have crossed by now..
• In Big Brother I dont know if you’ve already spotted this but if you look on the back of the video cover of Big Brother the three classic episodes goes in order, Big Brother, Cash and Curry then Go west Young man. But if you watch the vid it goes in order Big Brother, Go west Young man and Cash and Curry last. I would also like to point out that your site is brill, excellent, awesome 10/10 no doubt about it. I have made a site on the Brilliant Comedy and will be launching it in the very near future.
• In Big Brother and also Cash and Curry and Go West Young Man the theme tune to these first 3 episodes was not the WHY DO ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES WORK tune known for later episodes. It was a typical sitcom type tune with no words. If you buy the COMPLETE SERIES ONE with the greeny blue cover, the original tune is still there, but if you get the COMPLETE SERIES ONE with the yellow sleeve the first three episodes have ben dubbed with the now familiar why do only fools and horses work song.
• In Big Brother, Rodney asks Del why Trigger is so called. This suggests that Rodney has never met Trigger. However, Del says to Trig that he remembers his brother Rodney and Trig says he does. This means that they have met before. Also, Del must have done dodgy deals with Trig in the past or met him down the pub, so why does Rodney only now enquire about Trigger’s name?
• In Big Brother, Del is quoted as saying “You had to wait 13 years to come along” (after Del was born). In A Losing Streak Del said after their mum died their dad took off a while later and left them with nothing “Do you know what day that was that was my 16th birthday, he even took my cake”. Their mum died in March 1964 (seen on gravestone in The Yellow Peril) and their dad left in 1965 (quoted in Thicker Than water). It would a have been August or September as Del tells a bird hes a Virgo in an episode. Del then would have been 14 when their mum died making Rodney just 1 or 2. In Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? Rodney says “I was only a little 5 year old wondering what the whole in the ground was for. This refers to their mums death – This would have made Del 18.
• In Big Brother, Del mentions they got no pension, but in the episode “Wanted” granddad tells us how he waste his pension with bird called Camilla Diogo
• In Big Brother, the opening scene shows Rodney bookkeeping all the Trotters business receipts. The receipt Rodney finds to legally prove the watches are there’s, thus making them millionaires in “Time On Our Hands” was no doubt amongst the receipts Rodney is leafing through.
• In Big Brother , the very first opening scene at the Nags Head, a woman says “hello Del” giving us the feeling in the very first episode that this is Dels Local. That woman is played by actress Tessa Peake-Jones, better known in later episodes as Raquel.
• In Big Brother Rodney wears the same shirt as he did 3½ years later in ‘Strained Relations’. Chris Grayson
• In Big Brother Del reveals to Rodney that there mother died when Rodney was 6, yet in “Danger UXD” after a meal with Cassandra, Rodney states “My mother warned me about girls like you”, this is highly unlikely that his mother would communicate such things to a 6 year old.
• In Big Brother Rodney’s age is 23 and three series later in “As One Door Closes” he is 24 !! wish we could all age as well !!!
• In Big Brother Del says that Rodney was caught smoking the reefer by the governors doing there annual inspection. In the episode “May the force be with you” Slater says that he was caught smoking a Moroccan woodbine when the police burst in.
• In Big Brother When Del is on the phone to Dougie Sadler he says ‘How’s your luck pal? Triffic! Family? Super! ‘There is no way that Dougie could answer any of the questions given the speed with which Del rattles off the script.
• In Big Brother In the scene where granddad says Rodney is gone, he asks Del where has he been, and Del says he was out trying to sell the cases, but only after that scene, we see Del in the streets trying to sell the cases.

Big Brother Script

Missing Scene

Original Tune

The Original tune for the opening series one was very different to the now well known tune currently used.

Interesting Fact

This original episode was amongst the names bounced around for the comedy, others included the working title “Readies”. Eventually “Only Fools and Horses” was chosen. After the first series, the theme tune was used to explain the expression used in the title.

Rumours are ruined

We recently asked John Sullivan if it was true, that Raquel (Tessa Peake-Jones) had appeared in the very first episode Big Brother. The scene is pictured here, where Del walks in and a bird in the background says Hello to Del, it does sound like Tessa but is now confirmed as an Urban Myth with no substance.

The real world

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** ONLY FOOLS & HORSES EVENTS ANNOUNCEMENT **

The Only Fools & Horses Society are delighted to announce two provisional dates for 2021 to bring to you our much-loved shows.

We have seen many events, including ours close their doors for 2020. We are working hard to bring to you 2 events in 2021, if the guidelines allow.

40 Anniversary Conventions 1981 to 2021

So this is just dates for the diary at this stage:

• February Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th 2021
• October Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th 2021

We will announce details as they become available, we can’t announce venue yet

Only Fools and Horses Convention 2021

Following the current global pandemic, it has seen many events, including ours, sadly close their doors for 2020. We are working hard to bring to you two events in 2021, if the guidelines allow us to, our number one priority must be everybody’s safety.

Please note, we have no venue or further information in relation to timings, actors or tickets to announce at this stage, these are simply a Save the Date to get in your filofax’s should we be given the green light to put a 40th year spectacular on!

We hopefully look forward to seeing you in 2021!

For previous Only Fools and Horses conventions check out https://www.ofah.net/blog/category/convention/ also check out Our Convention news here

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Go West Young Man Episode Review

Brief: Rodney’s depressed. His mate Mickey Pearce has moved in on his bird – Monica of the fat thighs – and life isn’t exactly a social whirl. Del has the solution – they’ll all be millionaires in a year – cue his smooth friend Boycie and a very dodgy deal…

Transmitted: 15.9.1981
Duration: 30 minutes
Viewing Figures: 6.1 million

 

Del and Rodney are once again hunting for bargains. And after stopping off at Boycie’s car lot they spy a Mark II Cortina that’s being used as a part-exchange for a Vanden Plas. Del knocks the asking price down to £25, so long as he houses Boycie’s E type jag for a week – Del hopes to use the Jag to impress his bit on the side.

Del ups the price tag of the Cortina to £199 and gets interest from an Australian buyer. And with cash in their pockets, a Jag to drive, and both of them single, Rodney talks Del into heading off for a night on the tiles.

The Trotters’ night out doesn’t start too well, as they are chatted up by a pair of transvestites in a nightclub. But their luck changes in the form of Nicky and Michelle, who they manage to chat up and persuade them to write their telephone numbers on Del’s cigar pack, with the promise of a date next Friday.

On their way home, Rodney accidentally throws the cigar pack out of the window of the Jag, and when Del makes an emergency stop, a car smashes into the back of Boycie’s pristine E-type. To top it off, the car responsible for writing-off the Jag is none other than the clapped out Cortina.

Episode Observations

Original Tune

The Original tune for the opening series one was very different to the now well known tune currently used.

Where are they now?

According to our forum, Joanne Good, the blonde cutie that they are chatting up in the bar is now onBBC Southern Counties Radio.
Another Star from the show, was the Aussie man played by Nick Stringer. He later appeared in Coronation Street in the Rovers Return for a while. I can’t help but think he looks more like David Brent now.

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Only Fools and Horses Jokes you missed the first time round

Last week UKPA reported that David Jason revealed some occasions when he felt a one-liner would fail while making Only Fools and Horses

In detail, Sir David Jason explained a particular example of a Del Boy joke that fell flat while he was filming Only Fools And Horses.

What’s my old april in Cockney rhyming slang?

UKPA reports “The veteran actor said he had raised his doubts about the line to writer John Sullivan, but that John had insisted the studio audience would find it funny. He said: “I had to say to Rodney or somebody, ‘I was so worried that my old April was pouting like a guddun’ and I said to John Sullivan, ‘what is that?’ He said ‘it’s modern day Cockney rhyming slang’. So I said ‘what does it mean?’ He said ‘well, my old April, April in Paris, Harris, Aristotle, Bottle, Bottle and Glass, A**e.’ So I said ‘John that’ll never get a laugh’, he said, ‘yeah it will, they’ll all know it’. So there in front of an audience I said ‘I was so worried that my old April was pouting like a guddun’ and the audience were completely silent. John Sullivan, he was up in the box, he laughed. But that was just one moment I’ve never forgotten because it did absolutely stop the show, it stopped me and I did warn him. Everybody had to say, ‘what did it mean?'”

There have been a few that take some explanation, but for me that’s the beauty of the script

Let us know any you found took a little work to understand.

Why Police Helicopter is funny saying it a barratts helicopter?

Barratt’s housing advert Joke makes sense now

Here is one you may need a little help with….

Friday 14th http://www.ofah.net/blog/friday-the-14th/

If you don’t remember a Barratts housing advert  in the eighties then the joke about a helicopter going over will make little sense….Barratt
There is the sound of a helicopter passing over. Del looks from the window, closing his eyes with relief.

Chief: Is that a police helicopter?

Del: No, you’re alight. (A quick thought) It’s Barratts!!

Why A Saucy Little Git?

The word means cheeky in south London

Over to you…

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Cash and Curry Episode Review

Brief: Del’s swooping in on a deal of a lifetime – it could keep them in Pilau rice forever. All he has to do is get hold of £2000 to buy a poxy Indian statue… Trouble is, he hasn’t reckoned on a touch of gang warfare… Mr Ram and Vimmal aren’t the easiest guys to please.

Transmitted: 22.9.1981
Duration: 30 minutes
Viewing Figures: 7.3 million

Eager to forge new business contacts, Del befriends Vimmal Malik, a wealthy businessman who seems eager to work with Trotters Independent Traders.

After a dance at the Camberwell Chamber of Trade, Del and Vimmal are cornered by Mr Ram and his heavy boys. It seems that Vimmal is holding onto a pricey porcelain family heirloom that belongs to the Ram family – and they want it back.

In order to make an impression, Del offers to mediate between the two men, especially because Mr Ram is willing to pay four grand for the return of the statue to his family.

Unluckily for Del, the four grand is just a ruse and he ends up losing a fortune to Vimmal and Mr Ram, a couple of conmen touring the country using the same scam on local businessmen wherever they go.

Episode Observations

Cash and Curry Uncut

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Second Time Around

Brief: Del’s rekindled passion with an old flame Pauline and it looks like wedding bells are in the air again. Rodney’s not so thrilled after what happened to her first two husbands…With Aunt Rose on hand there is always an escape route.

Transmitted: 29.9.1981
Duration: 30 minutes
Viewing Figures: 7.8 million

Episode Observations

• In The Second Time Around, near the end when the Trotters re-enter the flat and Grandad checks the kitchen, you can see Lennard Pearce waiting for his cue.
• In The Second Time Around, When Del, Grandad and Rodney return to the flat after staying with “Auntie”, they rush in and whist Grandad is checking the kitchen you can clearly see Lennard Pearce standing by the door waiting for his cue.
• In The Second Time Around watch closely when Del bursts through the flat door and it springs back into his face…Rodney kicks the door back with his feet!
• In The Second Time Around is clearly linked to “The Miracle of Peckham” when granddad is saying how Del used to donate to the church roof fund … etc .. Sullivan goes and bases a whole episode on the same idea a few years later ! excellent !!
• In The Second Time Around When Rodney hears the front door slam as Del returns with news of his engagement,the dipstick instructs Grandad to ‘STAY vaguely at the T.V. screens’!

Second Time Around Script

Original Tune

The Original tune for the opening series one was very different to the now well known tune currently used.

Where’s Pauline?

So where is Pauline Harris today – Jill Baker

Recently she was found in a BBC sitcom “Screaming”. She is the one on the right. Seems Del missed out after all.

The Second Time Around location

You can find this on a street corner in Chapel Market Islington
It is actually found in 2 episodes the first one is The Second Time around and the second episode is Ashes to Ashes

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Slow Bus to Chingford Episode Review

Brief: Del has a dream: The Trotter corporate skyscraper, rising majestically against the Peckham Skyline. With Rodneys night job and use of an open-topped bus, it’s time for the latest moneymaking scam, Trotter’s Ethnic Tours… Some how it looks like it might not catch on.

Transmitted: 6.10.1981
Duration: 30 minutes
Viewing Figures: 7 million

The trouble starts when Del persuades the local bus company to hand over one of their open-top buses in exchange for Rodney working as a Trainee Nocturnal Security Officer – part of their latest company, Trotter Watch.

As part of the deal, Rodney has to suffer the nerve-jangling experience of patrolling the bus station on Tyler Street throughout the night.

The next part of Del’s scheme is the launch of Trotters’ Ethnic Tours: a scenic tour around Chingford and Croydon, taking in such ethnic sights as the Lee Valley Viaduct. And despite a great deal of whinging from his family, Del persuades Rodney to drive the bus, whilst Grandad agrees to distribute the publicity leaflets.

But when nobody turns up to the launch of Trotters’ Ethnic Tours, it is revealed that Grandad shares the legendary Trotter business acumen and has posted the advertising leaflets through the dust chute of Mandela House.

Check out our previous revisits:

Big Brother Revisit on https://youtu.be/5MceMADo1Eo

Go West Young Man Revisit on https://youtu.be/QmAHBZxrsDc

Cash & Curry Revisit on https://youtu.be/D6hSXnAbee4

Did You Know?

According to John Sullivan, he got the idea for the script of A Slow Bus to Chingford from his dad’s favourite pub “The Duke of Devonshire”. The guy who ran it was called “Boycie”. The place was a dive but the guy explained it was “Ethnic English” thus the idea was implanted in Sullivan’s mind. The bus used in A Slow Bus to Chingford has recently been re-registered and is still on the road and still working for a living Rumor has it that Gaynor Ward who played Janice was Nicholas Lyndhurst’s girlfriend at the time of filming. So where is Janice today? Gaynor Ward who played a part in Grange Hill and Tomorrows People has retired from acting.

TOUGH TRIVIA QUESTION

What colour was the Ethnic Tour Leaflet in A Slow Bus to Chingford ? Yellow Pink or White

Episode Observations

Original Tune

The original tune for the opening series one was very different from the now well-known tune currently used.

In the real world

The area used outside for the waiting of the crowd to take the bus tour.

Reality:

Ridley Avenue W13 as featured in the episode
“Slow Bus to Chingford”.

Much debate on the lampost, in 2006 it seems we have found the correct area but the lampost is changed – shame

Slow Bus to Chingford on location

This is the area where Del leans his board against a lampost used in Slow Bus to Chingford. It is found on Ridley Avenue, Northfields, London. Disappointedly the lampost has since been replaced.

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The Russians are Coming Episode Review

Brief: The threat of Nuclear war looms over Peckham. What will become of the Nag’s Head if the Russians attack? Well rehersals are needed. Surely Eric the Policeman will understand. One things guaranteed, the Trotters will be sitting pretty in their DIY shelter…

Transmitted: 13.10.1981
Duration: 30 minutes
Viewing Figures: 8.8 million

 

Another successful dodgy deal means Del has over a grand’s worth of lead from a disused factory to get rid of. When Rodney points out the three tons of lead are in fact a D.I.Y nuclear fall-out shelter, Del refuses to believe him until he reads the accompanying brochure.

With the threat of nuclear holocaust preying on Rodney’s nerves he asks Del what he’d do if he heard the four minute warning. Without an answer, Del considers putting a survival plan into action that means reaching Grandad’s allotment in time to take shelter.

It’s during a practice run for the Trotter counter-strike survival plan that they get stopped for speeding by the police – they never get to find out whether they’d make it in time.

Episode Observations

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Only Fools and Horses The Jolly Boys Outing Jigsaw Puzzle is an Official product with 1000 pieces.

As you would expect its Fantastic Quality Licensed By BBC Exclusive to Appreciation Society.

An Ideal Gift for any Only Fools Fan You are buying from the Only Fools and Horses Fan Club – so buy with confidence

The jigsaw size when completed is 50x70cm.

The Jolly Boys Outing Jigsaw Puzzle Product Details

• The Jolly Boys Outing Official 1000pc Jigsaw Puzzle
• Packed with Show Related Memories
• Size when completed is 50x70cm
• Official Licensed Product
• Fantastic Quality
• You know it makes sense

Price £18.99 through Amazon Also on ebay and the Only Fools shop

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Yes, visiting the Nags Head Pub, seriously! How amazing is this – you can visit the Nags head and become a regular for the day!

Gold is raising a glass to the 40th Anniversary of #OnlyFoolsandHorses by offering you the chance to visit a faithful reconstruction of the Nags Head! Who wouldn’t want to visit the Nags Head Pub?

OPENING THE DOORS FRIDAY 3RD and SATURDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER 2021.

The pop-up pub will be open to the public on Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th September. Book your table now: gold.uktv.co.uk/nagshead

Here are some more photos of what to expect if you Visit the Nags Head Pub

Located in Farringdon, London, the pop-up pub will roll back the clock with bargain 1980s prices – 83p for a pint – compliments of Del and Rodney Trotter! Fans will be able to live out some of their favourite memorable moments from the pub and plans are also in place for an Only Fools and Horses quiz where patrons will be in with a chance of winning a special prize.

The Nags Head will be open for business noon-9pm on FRIDAY 3RD and SATURDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER 2021.

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40 Years of Only Fools and Horses

Who can believe that it is forty years ago that the late, great John Sullivan introduced the Trotter family to the world. It feels a little more than yesterday but certainly not all those years ago. Every cast member brought something to the scripts and added to the dynamics of Del and Rodney, Grandad, Uncle Albert and all the other wonderful characters….

The post A Message From Sir David Jason appeared first on Only Fools and Horses.

Lovely Jubbly Is the new Book that is a celebration of 40 Years of Only Fools and Horses. It’s full of photos and clips and insights that every Fools and Horses fan would love to see and read. With 288 pages

Sneak Peek into the Lovely Jubbly Book

Here is an exclusive sneak peek into the pages…

It’s been 40 years since John Sullivan’s Only Fools and horses first graced our television screens.

Advanced copies of the Lovely Lubbly book have just come back from the printers, it is looking really lovely. It was a privilege to work with Jim Sullivan to bring this special book to life. Massive thanks to all the actors and behind the scenes legends who gave their time for interviews.

Extra thanks to Chris Mcneill for being a brilliant help and the invaluable Perry Aghajanoff for making the whole thing happen and going the extra mile (his name should be on the cover also really). The book is published on September 30th, but look out for a special edition from onlyfools.net

In this new official guide, packed full of rare and never-before-seen photographs, Mike Jones and Jim Sullivan – son of John and co-writer of the hit West End show Only Fools and Horses the Musical – chart the creation and evolution of the nation’s favourite comedy series.

Including behind-the-scenes info and interviews with those who helped make the show a success, and more than a word or two from Del, Rodders and the rest of the Peckham faithful.

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MEDIA STATEMENT FROM THE FAMILY OF JOHN CHALLIS

Sunday September 19, 2021

“It is with heavy hearts that we bring you such sad news. Our dear friend and yours, John Challis, has died peacefully in his sleep, after a long battle with cancer.“

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.

Message From Sir David Jason “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.”

Sir David Jason

“Please respect the privacy of John’s family and friends at this difficult time, and be assured that in the future there will be an occasion to celebrate John’s life – when everyone will be welcome to come along.”

The family has asked that, rather than sending flowers, any donations are sent to John’s chosen animal charities:

Cuanwildliferescue.org.uk

Tusk.org

Britishhedgehogs.org.uk

“As Boycie would have said . . . you know it makes sense!”

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Louise Comb has written a book of OFAH limericks. She is desperate to get them published. The idea is original and ‘off the wall’, yet unfortunately she can’t find any agents who are a right ‘fit’ for her book. Louise (Pen name: Blulu) has given us a few tasters as she has a strong feeling we will find them all bonnet de douche.

In her book, it reads one limerick per episode, with one for each main character, and one dedicated to John Sullivan to finish with. Below are a few random OFAH Limericks, to give us a taste, of course get in touch if you are a publisher and can help Louise publish her book.

Yuppy Love
 
Rodney and Cassandra first meet
Under circumstances funny and sweet
He falls for her truly
She falls for him too-ly
And Del falls through the bar – what a treat
 
 
A Touch of Glass 
 
The lads bump into Lady Ridgemere
And arrange to clean her chandelier
Sadly, they drop it
And in the end have to hop it
So...not millionaires this time, this year
 
 
Time on Our Hands 
 
After dining at the Trotter pied-à-terre
Raquel’s dad spots an antique watch there
Albert’s input is wavy
Serving coffee as gravy
And Del makes it to millionaire
 
 
He Ain't Heavy, He's My Uncle 
 
Around Dora (Marlene’s mum) the men flock
Especially, Uncle Albert and Knock-Knock
Like an old jealous lout
Knock-Knock knocks Albert out
Albert pees in his chair from the shock
 
 
Del Boy 
 
There once lived a dealer, called Del
Whose life’s work was to buy and to sell
Ever skiving, conniving
While ducking and diving
Ask his significant other, Raquel
 
 
Trigger 
 
What can one say about Trigger?
His IQ could probably be bigger
From cradle to grave
He will call Rodney, “Dave”
For reasons impossible to figure

Fancy adding your own OFAH Limericks in the comments below?

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** ONLY FOOLS & HORSES EVENTS ANNOUNCEMENT **

There has been a change of date for our annual convention

Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd May 2022

The Sharnbrook Hotel, Park Lane, Sharnbrook, Bedford, MK44 1LX

Only Fools 40th Anniversary Convention (1981-2021)

Meet the stars, photograph @ Autograph opportunities, on stage talk, rare and exclusive memorabilia for sale

MORE DETAILS SOON

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