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A celebrity chef who championed and supported farming produce over the years on his cooking programmes has died. 

Dave Myers, one half of the acclaimed chefs called the Hairy Bikers, died at the age of 66 on Wednesday night (February 28).

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Fellow Hairy Biker Si King said he could not put into words the emotion he felt at the passing of his culinary companion and best friend after a 'courageous' battle with cancer.

He had first been diagnosis with cancer in 2022.

²ÝÁñÉçÇø and producers have recently featured on BBC Two's The Hairy Bikers Go West series exploring food production along the west coast of England.

Pig farmers Liam Tickle and Rebecca Scott from Laburnum Farm in Warrington and arable farmers in Rufford at Fiddler's Lancashire Crisps have both featured on the show recently.

Both farmers said they had been made to feel at ease by the Hairy Bikers during filming on the show.

In tribute, Mr King said all who knew Mr Myers had been 'devastated' after his passing.

"Last night, on February 28, with Lili, Dave's wife, his family, close friend David and myself by his side, he passed away peacefully at home," Mr King added.

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"All who knew Dave are devastated at his passing.

"My best friend is on a journey that for now, I cannot follow.

"I will miss him every day and the bond and friendship we shared over half a lifetime.

"I know Dave and his family would want me to thank all of you who sent messages of support in recent times.

"It meant the world to him, his family and all The Hairy Bikers team.

"I am sending you all much love and gratitude for those simple acts of kindness, generosity and spirit.

"We are eternally grateful for them."

You can catch the episodes with Laburnum Farm and Fiddlers Lancashire Crisps on BBC iPlayer.

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