Britains best Sitcom
Only Fools and Horses has been voted the public's
favourite television sitcom in a BBC search.
The comedy set in Peckham, south London and starring Nicholas
Lyndhurst and David Jason was revealed as winner on a live BBC show
fronted by Jonathan Ross.
The public were first asked to choose their favourite sitcoms from
a list of 100. The final 10 have been championed by celebrity fans
in recent weeks.
Only Fools and Horses beat Blackadder and the Vicar of Dibley to
the top slot.
Other finalists included Dad's Army, Fawlty Towers, Porridge and
Open All Hours.
More than one and a half million votes were received for all 10
shows.
With 342,426 votes Only Fools and Horses gained 22.2% of the share
well ahead of second placed Blackadder which received 282,106 votes
(18.3%).
Only Fools and Horses, written by John Sullivan, first hit
television screens in 1981 and features lovable market stall
holders Del boy and Rodney Trotter.
THE TOP 10 SITCOMS
Only Fools and Horses (22.2%)
Blackadder (18.3%)
Vicar of Dibley (13.8%)
Dad's Army (11.3%)
Fawlty Towers (11.2%)
Yes Minister (8%)
Porridge (pictured) (6.1%)
Open All Hours (4.4%)
The Good Life (2.6%)
One Foot in the Grave (2%)
Since then it has become a family favourite with its Christmas
specials.
Del boy, with his catchphrases of "you plonker" and "luvverly
jubberly", has become one of the best-known characters on
television.
Actor David Jason, who plays Del boy, said after the result: "I am
delighted that something which gave me some of the happiest times
of my life still gives pleasure to so many people."
Writer John Sullivan said: "I started writing Only Fools and Horses
in 1981 because I knew that in 23 years time there would be a
Britain's Best Sitcom competition and I wanted to win it.
"I'm delighted for everyone connected with the series and my thanks
to everyone who voted for us."
Best gag on TV
As well as moments of memorable comedy the show is also known for
its poignancy with the relationship between Del boy and Rodney
central to the sitcom.
The cause for Only Fools and Horses, the only top ten sitcom still
being produced, was taken up by Bargain Hunt presenter David
Dickinson.
In his defence of the show he said it featured the "the single best
sight gag on telly" when Del Trotter fell through a pub bar.
Presenter Ross said: "British sitcoms have been pleasuring us for
over 50 years, with more than 800 hitting our screens.
"To get to this top 10, we sifted through the sands of comedy to
reveal 10 nuggets of pure gold," he added.
The Top 20 also featured such comedy shows as Father Ted (11), Last
of the Summer Wine (14), Absolutely Fabulous (17) and The Royle
Family (19).
About the Advocate
David Dickinson is an antiques expert and television
presenter, best known for his work with 'Bargain Hunt'.
