On a sweltering Saturday morning, thousands of motorcyclists roared out of London, embarking on a 300-mile journey to honor the memory of beloved TV chef and motorbike enthusiast Dave Myers. The event, known as Dave Day, has become a heartfelt annual tribute to the Hairy Bikers star, who tragically passed away from cancer in February 2024 at the age of 66.
Dave Myers, famed for his culinary adventures alongside co-star Si King, hailed from Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, and his legacy continues to inspire fans and motorcyclists alike. This year’s procession began just after 7 am at the iconic Ace Cafe, a fitting start for a ride steeped in motorcycle culture. Among the thousands of riders were Si King himself and Dave’s widow, Lili, both of whom joined in the spirited convoy that made several stops en route to Barrow.
The convoy was expected to reach Lancashire on the M6 motorway around 1 pm, prompting warnings of increased traffic and congestion from authorities. Lancashire Police announced an enhanced presence along the route, with officers and police motorbikes patrolling to ensure safety. They urged drivers to stay vigilant, especially at junctions where motorcycles can be harder to spot due to their shape and coloring. "Make eye contact where possible to show you have seen them," the police advised, emphasizing the importance of using indicators and giving motorcyclists plenty of space when overtaking.
For their part, motorcyclists were reminded to wear high-quality, well-fitting helmets and protective clothing, including bright fluorescent gear during the day and reflective gear at night. Additional safety tips included performing a 'lifesaver' glance over the shoulder before maneuvers and the installation of dashcams to record any road traffic offenses. "We hope all the motorcyclists participating have an excellent day, and a safe journey up north!" the police spokesperson said.
The procession’s route was meticulously mapped out, passing key locations such as Oxford Services at 8 am, the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham at 9:45 am, Knutsford Services at 11:45 am, and Burton-in-Kendal Moto Services at 1:45 pm, culminating in Barrow town center at approximately 3:15 pm. As the riders approached Barrow, Westmorland and Furness Council prepared for a bustling day, warning that several roads into the town would be "very busy" and that crowd barriers and road closures would be in place to manage the influx.
National Highways also issued a cautionary note to motorists, advising them to allow extra travel time and plan ahead due to thousands more bikers than usual expected on the motorway network. The M6, particularly around junction 36 and Knutsford Services where many riders gathered before heading north, was anticipated to be especially congested.
Upon arrival in Barrow, the atmosphere was electric. Thousands of supporters lined the streets, cheering the procession as it made its way through Abbey Road and into the town center via Park Road. The event was more than just a ride; it was a two-day celebration of Dave Myers’ life and passions, combining motorcycles, music, and community spirit.
The festivities included entertainment across Saturday and Sunday, featuring a concert outside Barrow Town Hall and a charity football match. Tickets were priced at £10 for each event, with all proceeds supporting causes close to Dave’s heart. Last year’s event raised £127,000 for charities including the NSPCC Childline and the Institute of Cancer Research, a testament to the generosity and dedication of the participants and supporters.
In keeping with the celebratory spirit, Barrow Business Improvement District (BID) distributed free postcards commemorating the weekend and the town’s connection to Dave Myers. Volunteers were stationed at key event sites, including the concert and a motorbike exhibition on Dalton Road, helping visitors navigate the festivities. An official event map was also made available, detailing the locations of various activities throughout Barrow.
Organizers and locals alike expressed excitement for the event, with Jason 'Woody' Woodcock, one of the key coordinators, remarking, "Lots of people are getting very excited... We're really looking forward to doing this again. It's going to be a whole weekend of togetherness." The sense of community was palpable, as bikers from all over the country joined in the ride, some donning colorful Hawaiian shirts in tribute, others simply eager to pay their respects to a man who combined his love of food and motorcycles into a unique and beloved career.
The council, while not directly coordinating the event, worked closely with emergency services to ensure public safety and minimize disruption to residents. They urged onlookers to remain behind barriers and avoid stepping into the road or attempting to 'high-five' passing bikers, emphasizing the importance of designated crossing points and the presence of marshals to guide the crowds.
Dave Myers’ impact extended beyond his television fame; he was a symbol of joy, resilience, and community spirit. His passing left a void felt deeply by fans and friends, but events like Dave Day ensure his memory lives on vibrantly. As the sun beat down on the convoy and the town of Barrow, it was clear that this was more than a tribute—it was a celebration of life, friendship, and the enduring power of shared passions.
With thousands of bikers riding in unison, raising funds for charity, and bringing communities together, Dave Day stands as a remarkable testament to the man who inspired it all. Whether you were on the road, lining the streets, or watching from afar, the message was unmistakable: Dave Myers may be gone, but his spirit rides on.
