HEARTFELT tributes have poured in by those locally mourning the death of the Barrow-born TV chef Dave Myers.

Hairy Biker Dave Myers has died at the age of 66, according to a statement from his co-star Si King on social media.

Myers, born in Barrow, first announced he was receiving treatment for cancer in May 2022, but did not specify what type he had been diagnosed with.

Conservative MP for Barrow and Furness, Simon Fell, has hailed Dave Myers as a 'real ambassador for Barrow.'

He said: "I vividly remember watching Dave and Si on Saturday Kitchen on groggy hungover weekend mornings. Their love of food in all its forms was infectious and got me interested in cooking, turning a curiosity into a hobby. May he rest in peace."

Mayor of Barrow Councilor Chris Altree said it is 'incredibly sad' following the news of the death of the TV celebrity.

He said: "I'm incredibly sad for the town and the people who live here because he was one of our biggest ambassadors. Everyone is thinking about his family at this sad time.

"I was a fan of the shows, so that is how a lot of people got to know him. I didn't know him personally I got to know him through his TV work.

Sam Plum, the chief executive of Westmorland and Furness Council, said: "Everyone at Westmorland and Furness Council has been saddened to learn of the death of Dave Myers. He was a tireless advocate for Barrow, Furness and the wider area and did immense good showcasing the many fantastic aspects of our area nationally and internationally. His easy embodiment of the strength of community of his home town was evident in everything he did and his support of events, groups and charities locally was much appreciated by many.

"The world is a less brighter place after his passing and we would like to extend our sympathies to Dave's family and friends. The flag at Barrow Town Hall has been lowered to half mast today as a mark of our respect and we will be discussing in the days and weeks to come how we can more permanently commemorate Dave's legacy."

Barrow businesses have also spent time on social media to share their memories and thoughts on the TV icon Dave Myers.

Tributes were paid by the owners of The Duke of Edinburgh Hotel in Barrow, where Mr Myers was a 'regular'.

In a Facebook post, it said: "So sad to hear the news about Dave Myers. Dave was a regular at the Duke for years, often turning up on a Friday or Saturday night sitting with his friends and enjoying a pint or two. He was always a delight to the staff, so polite and friendly.

"Absolutely never any airs and graces, despite the fact that he was a nationally famous face. We get a few celebrities staying, dining and drinking at the Duke; I don't think there's ever been a nicer one. We'll miss you Dave. RIP."

Jenny Fazackerley, owner of Jenny Stitches, shared a photo on social media with Dave Myers and Si King when they visited their shop in the Barrow Market.

In a Facebook post, the business owner said: "So sad to hear of the passing of the wonderful Dave Myers of the Hairy Bikers.

"One of Barrow’s finest ambassadors, with never a bad word to say for his beautiful home town, we were privileged to welcome him to Barrow Market Hall whilst filming the Hairy Bikers Go North.

"Thoughts are with Si & Dave’s family, many of whom of course still reside locally. Sleep well Dave."

Dave Myers found fame alongside Si King, his friend of 30 years, as part of the motorcycle-riding cooking duo.

King also shared his thanks to the fans who have shared messages of support in recent times and asked that his family and close friends be given time to process the loss.