Paul Whitehouse: We should have Christmas every 4 years

Paul Whitehouse believes Christmas should only be held every four years "like the World Cup".

The 64-year-old comedian, who fronts hit BBC series ‘Gone Fishing’ alongside pal Bob Mortimer, admits he doesn’t fancy filming a festive special of the show because he is fed up of Christmas.

Speaking on BBC Radio 2, he said: “To be honest, I’m a little bit sick of Christmas. You know, I’ve tried to put it to Bob and he’s nearly going along with that we should have Christmas every four years like the World Cup - then it would be special.

“Because it practically starts in June now, doesn’t it?"

'Gone Fishing', which sees the two lifelong friends embark on fishing adventures around the UK, aired a festive special on Christmas Eve last year.

The hour-long special saw the comedic duo embark on their most challenging adventure yet as they left behind the riverbanks of Britain to go fishing on their dream trip to Norway.

Paul’s latest role is playing Grandad in ‘Only Fools and Horses: The Musical’ - which he co-wrote - at the West End, and he admits it was “daunting” to write following the success of the iconic TV sitcom.

He added: “It’s so precious to people ... I didn’t realise quite how deeply it affected people and what it meant to families across generations.”

In January, it was confirmed the musical is to end after four years.

Paul said at the time: "It’s been an unbelievable four years for the whole cast of the 'Only Fools' musical.

"We’ve consistently played to packed houses and received standing ovations night after night - the audiences have been incredible.

"I’m committed to six months filming from May onwards, so it felt the right time to say "Bonjour" to Del and the gang ... for now."