Shropshire characters in the frame in John Challis's new novel

Mr Challis, who is best known for his role as wheeler-dealer used car salesman Boycie in the TV hit Only Fools and Horses, hopes that 'Reggie – In The Frame' will be a national hit.

It is his second 'Reggie' novel, following a debut that was published last year.

Mr Challis will sign copies at Burway Books, in Church Stretton, on November 1 from 2pm until 3.30pm.

And people who live in Shropshire and Ludlow could be in for a shock – because he has based some of the characters in his book on people who live nearby.

Mr Challis, who lives on the Shropshire border, said: "I have carefully disguised their identities, but if they look closely enough they will find themselves in there. It's a bit of fun and I'm sure people will take things in the spirit in which they are intended."

Mr Challis's debut Reggie novel was described as being in a similar vein to the work of the late comedy novelist Tom Sharpe. And he said his new book followed a similar path.

Details are at www.wigmorebooks.com