Dave's on a journey that I... for now...can't follow

Hairy Biker's heartbreak farewell as his TV partner dies of cancer

- NICOLA METHVEN

DEVASTATED Hairy Biker Si King has paid heartbreaking tribute to TV partner Dave Myers who has lost his fight against cancer.

Announcing his death yesterday he said: "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.

Si, 57, was at his friend's bedside when he died peacefully at home surrounded by his family.

Fans, buoyed in recent weeks by the pair's latest BBC2 series, filmed after Dave's cancer treatment ended last year, reacted with shock and disbelief.

In The Hairy Bikers Go West the celebrity chefs motored the length of the UK sharing - as they had done for 20 years friendship and a love of quality food.

At the end of the episode in which they explored Dave's native Lancashire, they reflected on their trip so far.

A smiling Dave concluded: "It's been glorious. What can I say? It feels so good to be alive!"

Si agreed: "It's great getting back here with my best mate. We didn't think 18 months ago that we'd be on the bikes again wandering around Dave's backyard and it's wonderful that we are.

The pair met in 1995 on the on the set of a BBC drama The Gambling Man when Si was second assistant director and Dave was a make-up artist.