TRIBUTES have been paid by celebrities after it was announced Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers passed away at the age of 66, two years after revealing he had cancer.

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

Paul Hollywood and Strictly star Karen Hauer are among those to pay tribute to Dave Myers, who has been remembered as 'brilliantly inspiring and kind'.

Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Hauer, who competed with Myers in the BBC competition in 2013, simply commented 'heartbroken' on the Instagram post that announced his death.

The Mail: Strictly Come Dancing contestant Dave Myers and dance partner Karen Hauer during rehearsals at the Royal Academy of Dance.Strictly Come Dancing contestant Dave Myers and dance partner Karen Hauer during rehearsals at the Royal Academy of Dance. (Image: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire)Great British Bake Off judge Hollywood said he was 'gutted' to hear about Myers’ death, adding: "This is terrible news! Love to all mate."

TV chef James Martin said he was 'lost for words, describing Myers as 'a very special man'.

Grantchester actor Robson Green said Myers' 'heart and soul inspired all who knew him' as he remembered his late friend who met King on the set of Catherine Cookson’s The Gambling Man, which starred Green.

Alongside a series of photos of the TV chef posted to Instagram, the actor wrote: "David’s warm smile, hearty laugh, and genuine love for people were not just the ingredients of his success but a reflection of his zest for life.

“His presence brightened our screens and his heart and soul inspired all who knew him and many others to embrace the simple pleasures of sharing a meal with loved ones.

“May his spirit continue to live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege and honour of being in his presence.

“RIP David Myers. All my love to you Hairy Bikers Simon at this incredibly challenging time."

TV chef Andi Oliver said she was “so sad” to hear that Myers had died and that her “heart goes out” to his family and his co-star King.

TV presenter and stylist Gok Wan described it as a “terrible and heartbreaking loss” as he also sent his support to Myers’ loved ones.

Radio presenter Bob Harris said he was “very sad to hear this news” while singer Alfie Boe sent his “love and sympathy” to Myers’ family and friends.

Across his career, Myers co-presented a host of cooking-travelogue shows and specials for the BBC alongside his friend King.

BBC chief content officer Charlotte Moore said that everyone at the BBC was 'incredibly sad' to hear the news of his death.

"Dave made cooking a truly joyful adventure and he shared that joy with millions," she added.

"The public loved him and his unique partnership with Si. Together they made every viewer feel like a friend.

"More than that he was simply a lovely man. Our thoughts go out to his family and many friends."