Despite his devastating diagnosis, Hairy Bikers’ star Dave Myers never stopped looking to the future, even in his final week
The beloved presenter had been fighting an unspecified form of cancer for a number of years, and announced he was undergoing chemotherapy in May 2022. His Hairy Bikers ‘brother’ Si King was by Dave’s side throughout, driving him to hospital appointments and making his favourite meals when he felt too poorly to cook.
The bearded pair were known for travelling the world on their motorbikes, sampling and cooking food from different regions. Throughout his cancer battle, at times Dave was unable to ride his motorbike, but in his final weeks, fans were over the moon to see the pair return to their screens, watching Dave and Si on the BBC’s Hairy Bikers Go West. And before his death on February 28 at the age of 66, the duo appeared to be looking forward to more adventures for their BBC One show.
Si King recently opened up about why he chose to work on a documentary about Dave following his death. He said: “It was important to celebrate the man and what he’d achieved and it was also important to give our audience a goodbye as well.”
He described Dave Day, which was organised by the late chef’s wife Lili Myers and one of his friends, as the “perfect example”. Si then went on to pay tribute to his pal Dave, whom he had first met more than two decades ago. Speaking to the outlet, Si said: “We’re all so sorry that we’re here in these circumstances but it was a celebration of that show. There’s lots of joy in that show but that was Dave.” He added that Dave was a “joyous man” who “embraced” and “loved” the life that he led.
Special final moments
On Tuesday, February 27, the Hairy Bikers were seen on screens exploring Merseyside and The Wirral, a place that holds a lot of childhood memories for both Dave and Si. During the fourth episode of their last series, the pair opened up about their “fond childhood memories” in the region.
One of the final Instagram posts before Dave’s death showed Si smiling at Dave in a sweet photograph of them basking in the sunshine. The post said: “For their next adventure out West, the Bikers are exploring Merseyside and The Wirral, a place that holds a lot of childhood memories for both Dave and Si.
“It’s also an area world-renowned for its unbeatable musical heritage and cultural identity. And the Boys quickly learn it has a food scene to match. Tune in to this week’s episode on @bbctwo at 7pm! You don’t want to miss out on it!” That was the last series the dynamic duo would ever film together.
On the show, Si discussed walking across the prom in New Brighton, before Dave said: “I once came to Liverpool to stay in a bed and breakfast for a week’s holiday when I was a kid. It was funny because they took me on the ferry across the Mersey and when I came back, you know when you do your school diary, I was always pretentious, I put so mam and dad took me on a cruise.
“I said we went to New Brighton and they burst out laughing, I was really humiliated. Because I thought the New Brighton ferry was a cruise.”
Work plans
Following his diagnosis, Myers briefly took a break from work before filming his last show with King, which sees them travel west across Britain from Scotland to Devon.
King previously said that the series, The Hairy Bikers Go West, would be one they would “always remember”. He explained: “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 57-year-old presenter said the travelogue was “a celebration of a joyous and creative friendship” and he was happy they returned to his co-presenters original home of Lancashire during the series.
The news of Dave’s death came as a shock to fans who had only recently started working on several projects. In January, fans said “Glad your back” and added Dave “looks so well”. Another said they were “so glad you’re both back in the saddle”.
Dave and Si also had plans to bring out another book together in 2024, called ‘The Hairy Dieters Fast and Fresh’. The “exciting announcement” was revealed on social media in February and was launched on 25 April.
Si King’s heartfelt tribute
Si was by Dave’s side when he died, and announcing the sad news via social media, he shared a collection of snaps of Dave taken over the years. He wrote: “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.”
The heartbroken star continued: “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. 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.”
Outpouring of love on social media
Heartbroken fans of the TV star rushed to pay tribute. One viewer took to X and said: “Many afternoons with my family watching his cooking. What a truly wonderful human being, another one taken from the world. Rest in peace Dave Myers.”
Another added: “I bet I’m not alone thinking Dave had turned a corner with his cancer treatment and was starting on the road to recovery. Such a lovely kind person.”
“Oh no, such sad news, he always came across as such a lovely bloke,” added another. Someone else commented: “Watched him last night so grateful to be out on his bike again with Si. I’m really sorry to read this news. He was a nice, genuine bloke and spiritual in his own way, bless his heart.”
A version of this story was first published in February.
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.
Do you have a story to share? Email julia.banim@reachplc.com
