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This is the moment Dave Myers expressed his delight at riding his motorbike for one last series after his cancer diagnosis, which aired just 24 hours before he died.

The chef announced he was receiving treatment for cancer in May 2022 and bravely kept the public up to date with his progress in a series of emotional TV specials.

He died on Wednesday aged 66 with his family and friends by his side, colleague and lifelong friend Si King revealed.

The last episode of The Hairy Bikers Go West which aired before he died, was on screens on Tuesday and followed the spirited duo exploring Merseyside and Wirral.

Speaking at the beginning, Myers emotionally opens up about his cancer battle, saying: ‘After my recent struggles, it looked like our adventures could be over.

‘When I was told I was ill, I never thought I would ride a motorcycle again.’

The footage then cuts to a shot of the friends on a rowboat, when Myers tells King ‘being here with you is like a bloody searchlight. It’s been amazing’.

The episode then shows the pair hugging as King replies ‘it has, love you’.

Dave Myers expressed his delight at riding his motorbike for one last series after his cancer diagnosis, which aired just 24 hours before he died

Dave Myers expressed his delight at riding his motorbike for one last series after his cancer diagnosis, which aired just 24 hours before he died

Speaking at the beginning, Myers emotionally opens up about his cancer battle, saying: 'After my recent struggles, it looked like our adventures could be over.'

Speaking at the beginning, Myers emotionally opens up about his cancer battle, saying: ‘After my recent struggles, it looked like our adventures could be over.’

He said: 'When I was told I was ill, I never thought I would ride a motorcycle again' and expressed his happiness at riding his motorbike for what would be his last series

He said: ‘When I was told I was ill, I never thought I would ride a motorcycle again’ and expressed his happiness at riding his motorbike for what would be his last series

Si announced the sad news in a statement released on social media, saying he would miss his friend 'every day'

Si announced the sad news in a statement released on social media, saying he would miss his friend ‘every day’ 

They open up about their ‘fond childhood memories’ of the region and Myers recalled ‘I once came to Liverpool to stay in a bed and breakfast for a week’s holiday when I was a kid.’

In the episode, Myers says: ‘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.’

To which King replied ‘It is if you want to get to New Brighton.’ 

The end of the episode shows a teaser for the next, in which the pair explore North West Wales. 

In the second to last episode, Myers hauntingly admits: ‘It’s good to be alive’.

The episode shows King saying: ‘Great that I’m back here with my best mate. We didn’t think 18 months ago that we’d be on the bikes again and wandering around Dave’s backyard and it’s wonderful that we are.’

To which Myers responds: ‘It’s been glorious and the motorcycling has been glorious. What can I say…It just feels so good to be alive.’

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.

On the latest episode of The Hairy Bikers Go West, Dave and his co-star Simon 'Si' King explored Lancashire

On the latest episode of The Hairy Bikers Go West, Dave and his co-star Simon ‘Si’ King explored Lancashire

He recalled the emotional moment as he gave a health update, saying he and Si were left in tears when he was able to ride again after buying himself a brand new vehicle earlier this year

He recently detailed the tearful moment he was able to get back on his motorbike again for the first time since his cancer diagnosis

He recently detailed the tearful moment he was able to get back on his motorbike again for the first time since his cancer diagnosis 

King previously said that the series, The Hairy Bikers Go West, which is airing on BBC Two, would be one they would ‘always remember’.

A post on The Hairy Bikers’ Facebook page in June 2023 announced the new series.

It read: ‘BIG day for us! After two years, the gang are back together and guess what? 

‘We start out new adventure! Filming in Scotland! Love form Dave and Si.’ 

The next episode of the series is set to air on March 5, with weekly shows continuing until March 19.

Stunned fans paid tribute online to the unlikely TV star, who first appeared on our screens in 2004 alongside his TV partner and racked up more than 30 separate projects, also selling 6million copies of their 30 cookery books.

In his heart-rending statement Si said: ‘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.’

The beloved duo first met when they were both working in the film industry – Dave as a make-up artist and Si as a locations director – and bonded over their love of food and motorbikes.

Over their career the best friends built up a reputation as the friendly faces of TV cooking, with more than 30 separate projects since they first debuted on the BBC in 2004.

The statement continued: ‘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.’

Dave revealed he had lost his hair after chemotherapy treatment in 2022

Dave revealed he had lost his hair after chemotherapy treatment in 2022

King also shared this black and white photo of him sitting with Dave on a bench

King also shared this black and white photo of him sitting with Dave on a bench 

Dave with his wife, Liliana Orzac, who he met while filming the series in Romania

Dave with his wife, Liliana Orzac, who he met while filming the series in Romania

Reacting to the news, BBC chief content officer Charlotte Moore said: ‘Everyone at the BBC is incredibly sad to hear this news.

‘Dave made cooking a truly joyful adventure and he shared that joy with millions.

‘The public loved him and his unique partnership with Si. Together they made every viewer feel like a friend.

‘More than that he was simply a lovely man. Our thoughts go out to his family and many friends.’

As well as his cooking adventures, Myers was well known for his warm-hearted appearance on Strictly in 2013, where he partnered with Karen Hauer.

In one particularly memorable performance Myers did a cha cha routine to Maroon 5 song Moves Like Jagger.

TV chef Paul Hollywood said he was ‘gutted’ to hear Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers had died aged 66.

he left the audience in stitches with exaggerated moves in a flamboyant silver shirt, before taking Hauer by the leg and pulled her along the dancefloor.

His energetic dances were memorable for their exuberance and then-judge Bruno Tonioli praised him for being ‘entertaining’ but he ended up being booted off while doing a tango to I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) by The Proclaimers half way through the series.

Commenting on the announcement post shared by Myers’ co-star Si King on Instagram, the Great British Bake Off judge said: ‘Gutted Si, this is terrible news! Love to all mate xx.’

The Hairy Bikers’ publishers Orion Books remembered Dave Myers as ‘brilliantly inspiring and kind’.

A statement said: ‘We are devastated to hear of Dave Myers’ passing and send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.

Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers (right) previously announced he was being treated for cancer

Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers (right) previously announced he was being treated for cancer 

Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall (C) and Hairy Bikers Dave Myers (L) and Si King (R) attend the British Food Fortnight Secondary School Competition at Clarence House, on January 27, 2011

Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall (C) and Hairy Bikers Dave Myers (L) and Si King (R) attend the British Food Fortnight Secondary School Competition at Clarence House, on January 27, 2011

Si King and Dave Myers in their final BBC cooking programme, The Hairy Bikers Go West

Si King and Dave Myers in their final BBC cooking programme, The Hairy Bikers Go West

‘We are immensely proud to have published the Hairy Bikers for over 14 years and will truly miss Dave’s infectious energy and passion for food and travel.

‘There was never a dull moment working with Dave, and all who were lucky enough to do so will attest to what a brilliantly inspiring and kind and hardworking man he was.’

This is a huge loss, and all our love goes out to Si, Lil and Dave’s wider family at this time.’

The combination of riding their motorcycles to locations across the world and cooking up a storm as The Hairy Bikers earned them a loyal following.

The pair also won over viewers with their cheeky northern humour and enthusiasm.

Their first show, The Hairy Bikers’ Cookbook, was launched on the BBC in 2006 and saw them ride across countries including Portugal, Romania and Namibia, tasting the local cuisine and experimenting with making it themselves.

The bearded duo went on to film many other series and specials for the broadcaster, seeking out new dishes in countries such as India, Vietnam, Argentina and Mexico.

They also sampled cuisines of places nearer to home, such as Ireland and the Isle of Man.

Karen Hauer and Dave Myers performing during rehearsals for Strictly Come Dancing 2013

Karen Hauer and Dave Myers performing during rehearsals for Strictly Come Dancing 2013

Dave Myers and Si King, The Hairy Bikers at the Basingstoke Festival of Food, Hampshire, 2009

Dave Myers and Si King, The Hairy Bikers at the Basingstoke Festival of Food, Hampshire, 2009

Across their career they published more than 30 cookbooks together.

Myers also competed in Strictly Come Dancing in 2013 alongside professional dancer Karen Hauer.

After performing dances including the salsa, jive and paso doble, the pair were voted off the competition in week seven.

He also appeared as a guest on a host of shows including Sunday Brunch, Countdown, Would I Lie To You?, All Star Family Fortunes and The Weakest Link.

In November, King told BBC Breakfast that their more than 30-year friendship came ‘naturally’ to them as they were ‘good mates’ and ‘part each other’s families’.

Myers also recalled during the interview that King had cooked him his favourite comfort food of mince and dumplings while he was being treated for cancer.

At the time, the TV chef said he had been ‘really enjoying life’ as he had got back to riding his bike and filming with his ‘best mate’.

Myers had previously spoken about other health struggles, including discovering he had glaucoma – an eye condition that can lead to blindness.

In 2018, he revealed he had originally dismissed the condition as a bad hangover.

He had also opened up about losing weight through the years by cutting out carbs and alcohol in a bid to become healthier.

For a BBC Two series, A Cook Abroad, Myers had to travel to Egypt without King after he suffered a brain aneurysm in 2014, which his co-presenter later said he was only able to survive thanks to considerable weight loss.

Myers was married to Liliana Orzac, whom he met while filming Hairy Bikers in Romania, and was a stepfather to her two children, Iza and Sergiu, from a previous relationship.

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This post first appeared on Daily mail

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