29 February 2024 , 10:49
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The Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers has died at the age of 66, two years after revealing he had been diagnosed with cancer.
The much-loved star died on Wednesday evening with his family and friends by his side after undergoing cancer treatment for the past couple of years. The TV chef did not specify what type of cancer he had after announcing he had started chemotherapy in May 2022.
Co-star and close friend Si King said he "will miss him every day and the bond and friendship we shared over half a lifetime," as he announced Dave's death on social media.
"I wish you god's speed brother; you are and will remain a beacon in this world. See you on the other side. Love ya," he added in a statement to X, formerly Twitter.
Dave Myers and Si King (BBC/South Shore Productions/Jon Boast)He said that he had been by Dave's side as he slipped away, along with Lili, Dave's wife, his family, and close friend David, adding in an emotional statement: "Personally, I am not sure I can put into words on how I feel at the moment. My best friend is on a journey that for now, I can't follow. I will miss him every day and the bond and friendship we shared over half a lifetime.."
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In 1995, Myers met his long-time co-presenter Si on the set of a TV drama, and they went on to build a friendship and a successful career together. Their combination of riding their motorcycles to locations across the world and cooking up a storm as they went earned them a loyal following.
Dave was a much-loved figure on our TV screensThe pair also won over viewers with their cheeky northern humour and enthusiasm. Previously Dave kept fans sporadically updated on his treatment following the announcement he had cancer in May 2022
The last series saw Simon 'Si' King and Dave, 66, explore the west coast of the UK after Dave finished his cancer treatment. The star did not specify what type of cancer and briefly took a break from work before filming the latest series The Hairy Bikers Go West.
On one of the last episodes of The Hairy Bikers Go West, the two explored Lancashire, which had an emotional connection for Dave as he was born in the county. At the end of the episode, Dave and Si decided to reflect on their travels, where they both made emotional statements.
Dave Myers has sadly died (BBC)Si said: "It's great getting back here with my best mate. We didn't think 18 months ago that we'd be on the bikes again wandering around Dave's backyard and it's wonderful that we are." Meanwhile, a smiling Dave added: "It's been glorious. The motorcycling's been glorious. What can I say."
Adding a seven-word message, he continued: "It feels so good to be alive!"
Si previously praised Dave for making the latest series special after being able to return to filming following treatment for cancer. Si said: "It's a series that we will always remember, not that we won't remember others. We are very privileged to do what we do and I think this one was particularly special in general because of Dave's health and his sheer and utter determination and love for what he does. Especially to continue to do it while he was having treatment took remarkable courage and energy – and adds to why Dave and I will not forget it."
*The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.