Hairy Bikers Dave's heartbreaking message to best pal Si before tragic death

29 February 2024 , 12:07

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Dave described cancer as a 'huge inconvenience' (Image: BBC)

Beloved TV chef Dave Myers had a different outlook on life after he was diagnosed with cancer.

The presenter, who was best known for being one half of the Hairy Bikers, has died at the age of 66, his co-star and best pal Si King announced earlier today. The bearded pair rose to fame riding their motorcycles and cooking around the UK two decades ago. Dave "passed away peacefully" with Si and his loved ones by his side on Wednesday, February 28.

Just earlier this month, the comedy duo returned to TV for their new series The Hairy Bikers: Go West, and on the show, Dave spoke to Si candidly about his views on death and how his whole perspective had changed since living with cancer. The 66-year-old said you never know "what's around the corner" and that you should always "live for today".

Dave told Si to 'live for today' in a Hairy Bikers episode earlier this month (BBC/Twofour)

In his emotional speech, he told Si: "One thing I'd say is you have to live for today, don't live for tomorrow because you don't know what's around the corner. It could be a double-decker bus. Live for today and don't worry so much. I've always been a stupid worrier. Big stuff I'm alright, but I worry about the daft stuff. But now I'm learning, I'm like, 'Come on Myers get it in perspective!"

He added: "But cancer - there's nothing kicks you in the teeth like that." In a clip on the same show, Dave smiled and declared that it was 'good to be alive'. In one of his final TV appearances before his death, Dave said: "It's been glorious. The motorcycling's been glorious. What can I say? It feels so good to be alive."

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Dave chose not to disclose the full details surrounding his cancer diagnosis when he went public with the news in May 2022. Speaking to the Guardian that year, he explained he did not share this information "because everybody then goes Googling, everybody becomes an amateur doctor... And I don't want to be judged - yet". He added: "A huge inconvenience is the best way to describe it."

Dave had kept fans updated on his cancer journey throughout, and revealed his recent return to the air was a celebration of his fight against the disease. During an appearance on BBC's Saturday Kitchen, Dave made a heartbreaking confession to host Matt Tebutt, admitting that at one point he feared he wouldn't make it that far.

He said: "I don't go on about it too much, but with most Christmas specials you have to cook for somebody, but this was kind of like the Hairy Bikers best ever Christmas. Because it was the Christmas I never thought I'd be here for." He said: "I had to learn to walk and I had to learn to ride my motorcycle again." Dave and Si joined forces for their Coming Home for Christmas special, which Si admitted was "really emotional".

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Si confirmed the passing of his beloved pal on Thursday morning, just days after the pair had promoted their latest ventures together and amid a TV return for the duo. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Si wrote: "Hi everyone, I'm afraid I bear some sad news. Most of you will know Dave has been fighting cancer for the past couple of years. Last night, on 28th February 2024, with Lili, Dave's wife, his family, close friend David and myself by his side, he passed away peacefully at home. All who knew Dave are devastated at his passing.

"His beloved wife brought him such happiness as did her children, Iza and Sergiu who Dave loved like his own. 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. 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."

Si then added: "I know Dave and his family would want me to thank all of you who sent messages of support in recent times. It meant the world to him, his family and all The Hairy Bikers team. I am sending you all much love and gratitude for those simple acts of kindness, generosity and spirit. We are eternally grateful for them. May I ask you all for one further kindness and allow Lili, his wife, his family, close friends and I some time and some peace to process our huge loss. I am sure I will see you all soon. Love Si x."

Nia Dalton