Best known for his role as Uncle Albert in the classic BBC sitcom Only Fools and Horses, Merryfield died aged 78 at Poole Hospital after suffering from a brain tumour.
The actor is buried at Verwood Cemetery alongside his wife, Iris who dies in 2002.
Their shared memorial has recently been the focus of attention after members of the public raised concerns that it appeared to have been damaged.
Buster Merryfield, Only Fools and Horses actor’s grave, Verwood cemetery (Image: Verwood Town Council)
Verwood Town Council has confirmed that the grave has been taped off, but says this is due to safety concerns rather than and confirmed reports of vandalism.
The council said the memorial failed a routine stability assessment, known as a “topple test” and has been cordoned off until repairs can be carried out.
Verwood Town Clerk Carrie Lloyd said: “The Town Council has placed red and white tape on the memorial stone for Buster and Iris Merryfield as it has failed a ‘topple test’, essentially the top of the headstone has become detached from its base and poses a health and safety risk until it can be repaired.”
The council added they are “not aware of any other vandalism” that may have happened to the memorial in the past.