Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers reveals secret health battle amid cancer treatment

Hairy Bikers chef Dave Myers revealed that doctors diagnosed him with anorexia as he struggled to gain weight during his cancer treatment weeks before his death aged 66.

The TV star “passed away peacefully” on Wednesday night following a battle with cancer his co-star Simon ‘Si’ King confirmed in a statement on social media.

Myers, born in Barrow-in-Furness, Lancashire, did not specify what type of cancer he had after announcing he was undergoing chemotherapy in May 2022.

However. the presenter had taken a brief break from work before filming their latest show, The Hairy Bikers Go West, amid his health battle.

Speaking to King on the episode, which aired on February 7, Myers revealed his anorexia diagnosis but explained that his weight had stabilised amid his cancer treatment.

He said: “At one point I was diagnosed as anorexic.

Si King with Myers on their BBC series, The Hairy Bikers Go West (BBC)

“Can you believe it after all the dieting we’ve done? But yeah, I’m doing alright now, I’m living with it. My weight’s stable so whatever I’m doing, I’ll carry on with it.”

In the same episode, the TV star also shared that his chemotherapy treatment caused him to suffer a loss of balance, which left him fearing he would be unable to ride a motorcycle again.

“When I was told I was ill, I never thought I’d ride a motorcycle again. But we’re doing it!” he said to his friend during an emotional moment on the show.

“There was a time when I couldn’t balance, I couldn’t walk. I didn’t think I’d be getting on a bike. But I’m sound as a pound mate.”

King asked: “How did you get that back? Bloody hard work?”

Myers replied: “Hard work and physiotherapy.

“I’ve still got my foot in a splint to change gear but it works. It’s joyous. I love the whole paraphernalia with the bike, the smell of the bike. It’s a dream come true, Kingy. I appreciate it so much.”

During the episode, King notably praised Myers for returning to the latest series amid his cancer battle.

The 57-year-old said: “It’s a series that we will always remember, not that we won’t remember others.

“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.”

Myers, best known as one half of the Hairy Bikers, death was confirmed by King on Thursday:

He penned on their shared social media account: “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.”