Roman Kemp and Alex Jones close to tears over Dave Myers tribute

29 February 2024 , 20:18

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Roman Kemp and Alex Jones close to tears over Dave Myers tribute

The One Show viewers were left overcome with emotion after they heard the tragic Dave Myers' 'live for today' chat with best friend Si King.

In a tribute to him, the BBC programme remembered back to the poignant episode where the pair sat fishing in a boat following his cancer diagnosis. Hosts Roman Kemp and Alex Jones spoke about the sad news before playing the clip - and even they looked close to tears.

On Thursday, Si revealed that his best pal had been surrounded by his wife and friends when he died. It comes two years after Dave first shared that he was receiving treatment and has kept fans updated throughout his journey. The Hairy Bikers Go West was the final time we see Dave on screen and he told Si: "One thing I have to say is that one has to to live for today. Don't live for tomorrow, you don't know what's around the corner. You could get hit by a double-decker bus.

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"Live for today and don't worry so much." Si responded: "There's nothing bigger than the perspective you have to have when you've been through the processes that you have." Dave told him: "It's a lot to get your head around. But you know, talking about light at the end of the tunnel, being here with you - it's not just light, it's a bloody searchlight."

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."

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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.

Roman Kemp and Alex Jones struggled to keep their emotion in check (BBC)

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 every 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".

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 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."

Sam Elliott-Gibbs