John Challis says his TV career ended after 'Benidorm' was axed.

John Challis

John Challis

The 77-year-old actor - who shot to fame playing car salesman Boycie in 'Only Fools and Horses' - claims that he has received no acting offers since he left 'Benidorm' and he is now concentrating on writing books instead.

Speaking to Iceni Magazine, he said: "As for television, my career came to an end with the end of 'Benidorm'.

"Thankful as I am for what Boycie has brought me, I'm still an actor and actors want to show off their capabilities.

"I really thought my 'Benidorm' character had legs, so that's a sadness.

"Luckily, I have another string to my bow - I have written five books, which have gone well."

Meanwhile, John - who portrayed Monty Staines in 'Benidorm' - previously hit out at ITV for dropping the long-running comedy show.

He said: "I don't understand this attitude towards comedy. What other comedy has ITV got at the moment that is so popular?

"It's what people want. they just want to relax, especially in these difficult times - they just want to relax and let it wash over them and have a good laugh.

"I don't know who these people are making these decisions - but where I am - I do a one-man show all over and I go to conventions - all I hear is people who want comedy. They want something they can switch on and think, 'Oh this'll be fun.' "