The beloved star of the BBC sitcom 'Only Fools and Horses' said pulling out of a fan-organised event in Bucks was 'not a decision he took lightly'.

Sir David Jason, who played Derek 'Del Boy' Trotter in 'Only Fools and Horses' throughout its 22 years on BBC One, was due to appear at a fan convention for the show held at DoubleTree Milton Keynes this October.

However, over the weekend, the Only Fools and Horses Appreciation Society, which has organised the convention for the last three years, issued a statement from the comedy veteran announcing the postponement of the event following news that he is set to undergo an operation for the fitting of a 'new bionic body part'.

The statement read: "I am so sorry for the disappointment and all the inconvenience it may cause but we are having to change the date for the forthcoming Only Fools and Horses Convention.

"Unfortunately, I have just been advised that I need to have a new bionic body part fitted (I won't tell you which part it is or you will all want one!) and don't worry, it's not being supplied by Monkey Harris, it'll be the pukka gear.

"I really hope everyone will be able to make the new date (January 13 and 14) and we can all have something to look forward to!

"Once again, please accept my sincere apologies as it was not a decision I took at all lightly and I hope you understand my situation. All cushty wishes until then."

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He added that events such as the convention, showing the place Only Fools and Horses continues to occupy in the hearts of long-term fans, were "a privilege" and "such an enjoyable celebration" but he wanted to be able to take part "with the smile on my face that I always have had".

The event, which is billed as 'A Moment with Sir David Jason and Only Fools friends', has been rescheduled for the weekend of January 13 and 14, 2024 at DoubleTree Milton Keynes.

On the Del Boy's Online Shop website, organisers reassured those hoping to attend the event later this year that their tickets would be automatically rolled over to the January dates.

A gold single admission ticket, priced at £450 per person, is set to include a photo opportunity in the Trotter Flat with Sir David Jason, access to panel talks from cast members, lunch and snacks and more. 

A silver ticket, at £325, has similar benefits though doesn't include a limited edition convention montage signed by the 'Del Boy' actor.