Dave Myers tributes: Yorkshire’s sadness at Hairy Biker’s passing

Tributes have been pouring in for Dave Myers from all over Yorkshire ever since his friend and co-star Si King confirmed the sad news of his passing on Thursday.

Restaurant owners, chefs and food festival organisers from across the county have been sharing their memories of the TV legend who, alongside his good friend Si King, is credited with changing TV cooking for the better.

King lead tributes this week as he confirmed that Dave had sadly passed away aged 66 in a statement released on the Hairy Bikers Twitter page.

His statement read: “I’m afraid I bear some sad news. Most of you will know Dave has been fighting cancer for the past couple of years.⁠
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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.⁠
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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.⁠
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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.⁠
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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 motorcycle-riding duo famously toured the country – and the world – on their bikes in search of new recipes, and Dave clearly touched the hearts of many Yorkshire folk along the way.

Popular West Yorkshire Indian restaurant Prashad were quick to share their own tribute to Dave Myers, writing on their Instagram page: “We’re incredibly saddened to hear about the passing of The Hairy Bikers Dave Myers.

“We were lucky enough to spend time with him and Si, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the kindness they both showed us. Dave’s passion, for food and for life, was infectious. What a wonderful person, gone far too soon.

“Our hearts go out to Si and to Dave’s family. All our love, from Bobby, Minal, Maitri and the whole team at Prashad “

Chef Tommy Banks

North Yorkshire chef Tommy Banks, who owns Michelin-starred The Black Swan at Oldstead, Roots in York, The Abbey Inn at Byland and the premium food box business Made In Oldstead, also shared his own tribute to Dave Myers.

He wrote: “So sad. I am absolutely gutted to hear the sad news about Dave Myers. Such an incredible lovely person. I really enjoyed the times that I spent with Dave he always lit up a room.

“Such a genuine, kind and good person. Always so positive, even in the last few years. He really was one of the best and he will be sorely missed. RIP mate.”

Yorkshire Dales Food & Drink Festival

Yorkshire Dales Food & Drink Festival organiser Rachael had worked closely with the Hairy Bikers at her events since 2016, and shared her own Dave Myer’s tribute on the festival’s business page.

She wrote: “Absolutely devastated, no words really. This is a truly sad day for us, Dave and Si aka The Hairy Bikers have been part of our festival family from the very beginning, way back in 2016.

“Dave was a fabulous, hilarious, hugely talented guy who will be missed by millions and especially missed by me, my family, our team and guests. Our heart felt condolences to Dave’s Family and Si. Rachael xx”

Fish & Forest, York

Sharing their own Dave Myers tributes, the team at Fish & Forest wrote: “Such sad news to wake up to this morning. Myself and Yohan was lucky enough to have the pleasure of cooking for David back when we had our little room at the Gillygate.

“He was so enthusiastic and joyful about all the food we cooked and took a real interest in our future plans. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. What a fantastic human he really was.”

Featured image – Prashad via Instagram