BIOGRAPHY
Full Name: David James Myers Born: 8 September 1957, Barrow-in-Furness, England Died: 28 February 2024 (aged 66)
Early Life & Background
Dave grew up in Barrow-in-Furness. In his youth, he helped cook for his family when his mother was ill, while his father encouraged his love of motorbikes. These early influences would shape both his passions—food and bikes.
He studied fine art at Goldsmiths, University of London, before gaining a master’s degree in art history. Before fame, Dave worked as a professional make-up and prosthetics artist for television, including two decades at the BBC.
Meeting Si King
In 1995, while working on the Catherine Cookson adaptation The Gambling Man, Dave met Si King, who was an assistant director. Their friendship began over a shared love of food and motorcycles.
The Hairy Bikers Era
Together, they launched The Hairy Bikers’ Cookbook in 2004, which combined their travels on motorbikes with cooking local dishes. Their easy charm, humour and unpretentious approach won them a devoted following.
Over the years, they presented many popular series including:
- The Hairy Bikers’ Cookbook
- The Hairy Bikers’ Food Tour of Britain
- The Hairy Bikers’ Asian Adventure
- The Hairy Dieters
- Hairy Bikers Go West
Legacy, Personality & The Water Rats
Dave was more than just a familiar face on television—he was one of the most well-loved personalities in British broadcasting. Warm, witty, and down to earth, he was adored by audiences and colleagues alike for his genuine kindness and infectious enthusiasm.
He also took great pride in being part of the Grand Order of Water Rats, an organisation he dearly adored. His involvement reflected his deep respect for tradition, fellowship, and charity, values that matched perfectly with the way he lived his life. To his fellow Rats, as to the public, Dave was not only a star but a friend.
Illness & Passing
In 2022, Dave revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer. He approached his treatment with openness and good humour, referring to himself as a “baldy biker.” Despite his illness, he continued filming with Si.
Dave passed away peacefully at home in February 2024, surrounded by family and friends. His passing was marked by widespread tributes, remembering him as a kind, inspiring and much-loved figure whose warmth and generosity touched countless lives.
Summary
Dave Myers was far more than a TV cook. He was an artist, a craftsman, a traveller and a warm presence in millions of homes. Through his partnership with Si King, he helped redefine what food television could be: heartfelt, funny and deeply human. To the Grand Order of Water Rats, and to everyone who knew him, he will always be remembered as a true gentleman and a deeply loved brother Rat.
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