Badger Suspected in Damage to Only Fools Star's Grave
The family of beloved Only Fools and Horses actor Buster Merryfield have disclosed that the damage discovered at his grave was not the work of vandals, as initially feared. Instead, they suspect natural causes or even a furry culprit might be responsible for the cracks found in the headstone at Verwood Cemetery in Dorset earlier this week.
Fan Concern and Family Investigation
Devoted fans of the classic BBC comedy launched a fundraising campaign to purchase a new headstone after images of the damaged grave circulated online. Merryfield, who portrayed the iconic Uncle Albert from 1985 to 1996, passed away in 1999 and rests alongside his wife of 57 years, Iris Merryfield, who died three years later.
Initially, the family expressed concern that vandals had defaced the final resting place when a significant crack was observed in the gravestone. However, following a personal inspection by Merryfield's grandson, Stuart Andrews, the perspective shifted dramatically.
Natural Wear and Tear or Wildlife Interference
Andrews visited the 27-year-old grave and confirmed that no malicious act had occurred. He explained that the deterioration likely resulted from general wear and tear over time, with the adhesive holding the plaque and stone together breaking down. Interestingly, he also suggested that a badger could potentially be behind the damage.
'I've been to visit [Buster's grave] and I want to reassure you it has not been vandalised,' Andrews stated. 'Over time the glue holding the plaque and stone has deteriorated which has caused the plaque to crack and the stone to become loose. We're currently in the process of getting everything repaired and restored to its original state.'
Repair Costs and Family Responsibility
Estimates indicate that repairing the grave will cost nearly £2,000. While Only Fools and Horses enthusiasts had generously offered to establish a crowdfunding initiative to cover the expenses, Andrews confirmed that the family will handle the financial responsibility themselves.
The grandson expressed gratitude for the fans' care and concern, thanking them for their vigilance. Carrie Lloyd, the town clerk of Verwood Town Council, supported the family's assessment, noting she did not believe vandalism was involved. She highlighted that the current condition presents a health and safety risk, prompting the council to cordon off the area with red and white tape to prevent accidents.
Buster Merryfield's Remarkable Life and Career
Merryfield, whose real first name was Harry, enjoyed a fascinating journey before achieving television fame in his sixties. He began his career as a bank clerk at age 17 before serving in the Army during the Second World War, where he distinguished himself as a boxing champion and an instructor in physical training and jungle warfare.
After the war, he returned to banking, eventually becoming a manager with National Westminster. Simultaneously, he pursued his passion for acting through amateur shows. Upon taking early retirement, he joined a repertory company and secured minor roles in television and film during the early 1980s.
His big break came in 1984 when he was cast as Uncle Albert in the fourth series of Only Fools and Horses. The character was introduced following the death of actor Lennard Pearce, who played Grandad, and quickly became a fan favourite with his seafaring tales and catchphrase: 'During the war.'
Merryfield, who avoided cigarettes and alcohol throughout his life, married at 21 and had one daughter. He lived in Verwood until his death from a brain tumour in 1999 at age 78. His legacy as one of Britain's most cherished television actors remains intact, with fans continuing to honour his memory decades after his passing.
