'Boycie' opens Much Wenlock wildlife charity venture

Only Fools and Horses actor John Challis has officially opened a Shropshire-based wildlife rescue centre's charity shop as the organisation's new patron.

Mr Challis, who starred as Boycie in the iconic TV series Only Fools and Horses and spin-off Green Green Grass, opened Cuan House Wildlife Rescue Centre's shop at the former Barclays bank building in Much Wenlock High Street yesterday.

A committed supporter of wildlife conservation both in the UK and abroad, Mr Challis became a Cuan House patron as the charity launched a major fundraising initiative for £500,000 for a purpose-built centre.

He said: "I live on the south Shropshire border, know its wildlife extremely well and am delighted to be able to help promote the excellent work of Cuan House – their efforts are literally never-ending, they will not turn any animal away and their achievements in saving wild animals in order to return them to their natural habitats are phenomenal."

Sean Nicholas, of Cuan House, which was founded by Megan Morris-Jones, added: "We are extremely grateful to have John Challis on board as patron – he totally understands our aims and objectives."

Mr Challis, who wrote 'Being Boycie' and recently appeared at Hay Festival, will be at Much Wenlock Festival on June 17. He will join Gabrielle Drake and other actors in an evening of prose, poetry and music.

For further information about Cuan House visit www.cuanhouse.org.uk