11 Best One-Off Only Fools And Horses Characters

By the end of Series 2, Del’s character was nearly fully established. The audience grew to love him as a cockney rebel, always seeking cheap frills and quick bucks, and his loyalty to his immediate family was apparent. However, in the Christmas Special ‘Diamonds For Heather,’ Derek becomes more well-rounded as we see his desire for a secure nuclear family.

Upset at the beginning of the episode due to a failed romantic encounter, Del brings the mood down for everyone as he requests ‘My Dog Shep’ to be played. Noticing the only person to have stayed, Del introduces himself to the quiet Heather. The pair share feelings of disappointment in love and a relationship blooms.

Heather introduces Del to her son, Darren, and the three enjoy days out together, while Del becomes more romantic in the evening. As soon as the relationship seems to be about to progress into something more serious, Heather reveals that Darren’s father has asked her to give him another go. Heather chooses what is best for her son, and leaves Del lovelorn once again.

Playing the calm Heather, Rosalind Lloyd is the perfect counterpart to the bawdiness of Del. Her superb portrayal allows the audience to get to know the real Derek Trotter away from the eyes and ears of the locals he is desperate to impress. Heather illustrates that behind the cheap frills and tacky charm, Del just wants to be wanted.