HAIRY Bikers star Dave Myers never revealed what type of cancer he had because of one heart-wrenching reason.
Dave's co-star Si King sadly confirmed today that his pal had passed away aged 66.
The star, best known for being one part of the Hairy Bikers, had fought a long health battle in the past two years.
In 2022 he revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer but never shared his specific diagnosis.
In an interview two years ago he admitted he "did not want to be judged".
Speaking to the at the time, the TV cook 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."
The aggressive chemotherapy he underwent to combat the disease not only meant he had to learn to walk again but also made him lose his appetite.
Posting on Twitter today, Si told fans that Dave had passed away at home on Wednesday evening, surrounded by wife Lili, his family, pal David, as well as his Hairy Bikers co-star.
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His statement announcing the tragic news prompted a flurry of emotional tributes from celebrity friends and fans alike.
Posting on Twitter, 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.
"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."
Dave and Si found fame as the Hairy Bikers more than 20 years ago.
The duo travelled around the UK, Europe and the wider world on their motorbikes - eating and cooking wherever they stopped.
Dave was married to Liliana Orzac, whom he met while filming Hairy Bikers in Romania.
His wife has shared a touching tribute following his tragic death.
She said: "Rest in peace, my love. My wonderful, brave man! Till next time we meet!"
It comes as...
- Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers had been hard at work just a week ago
- The chef bravely revealed his cancer battle
- Heartbroken fans have paid tribute to Myers
- Myers was stunned after meeting his wife Liliana
Dave was said to be gobsmacked after first setting eyes on Liliana.
The couple lived together in Kent before moving to Staffordshire last summer.
He was also a stepfather to her two children, Iza and Sergiu, from a previous relationship.
Dave started his working life as a make-up artist and first met Si in 1995 while working on a TV drama called The Gambling Man.
Their first TV appearance together was The Hairy Bikers' Cookbook in 2004, which was part cooking show and part travel programme and in the first episode the duo rode the length of Portugal.
Subsequent shows included The Hairy Bikers Ride Again, The Hairy Bikers' Food Tour Of Britain, The Hairy Bikers: Mums Know Best, The Hairy Bikers' Cook Off and Hairy Bikers: Best of British.
They have published more than 25 cookery books.
Their latest BBC series, The Hairy Bikers Go West, started just weeks ago.
In the first episode, Dave told viewers it was "a dream come true" to be back on his motorbike.
He added: "I wasn't sure I'd ever get back in the saddle again."
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Si King's heartbreaking statement in full
"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.
"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"
"There was a time I couldn't balance, I couldn't walk, I didn't think I'd be getting on a bike."
The pair's final post was shared just yesterday and saw them smiling as they sat close together in the sunshine, while Dave held onto his biker helmet.