A PERFORMING arts venue has paid tribute to a legendary comedy actor who was due to perform in Colchester next month.

Colchester Arts Centre was scheduled to play host to John Challis, famed for playing Boycie in Only Fools & Horses, on October 26.

The intimate evening would have seen guests treated to secrets and stories from his time on the set of the television classic and from his dazzling career.

The show, however, has now been cancelled after John died on Sunday, aged 79, following a lengthy battle with cancer.

In a touching social media post a spokesman for Colchester Arts Centre said: “RIP John Challis, a brilliant comedy actor.

“We were so looking forward to welcoming ‘Boycie’ to Colchester Arts Centre, you will be much missed.”

Anyone who had purchased a ticket for John Challis’ Colchester Arts Centre show is asked to contact ticketing@colchesterartscentre.com for a refund or credit note.