M6 traffic: UK's longest motorway grinds to a halt as thousands of bikers descend for Hairy Biker ‘Dave Day'
THE UK's longest motorway will grind to a halt today as a horde of bikers pay poignant tribute to the life of Hairy Biker Dave Myers.
Thousands of riders are expected to grab their helmets and head north to Cumbria to commemorate this year's 'Dave Day' in honour of the late TV personality.
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It marks the second consecutive year the memorial bike ride has taken place.
In 2024, an estimated 46,000 bikers arrived to celebrate Dave's life following his tragic death on February 28 that year.
The bikers are expected to arrive in the county this afternoon where two days of events will begin in memory of the beloved chef.
National Highways is advising motorists to allow more time for their journeys and to plan ahead this weekend.
The motorcycle procession starts at the iconic Ace Cafe in London, with bikers joining at other rendezvous points including the Oxford Welcome Break Services at junction 8A on the M40, the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham and northbound M6 Moto Services at Knutsford between junctions 11 and 12.
National Highways Northwest Operations Manager Dee Murray said: 'We are advising motorists to allow more time for their journeys with thousands more bikers than usual travelling across the motorway network this weekend.
'The M6 will be particularly busy, especially at junction 36 with the procession making its way along the A590 to Barrow, but also earlier at Knutsford Services, where motorcyclists travelling from the south will gather before completing their journeys north.
'We urge road users to take extra care with motorcyclists travelling in convoys. Safety advice can be found on our website under our TRIP and BikerTek campaigns.'
TRAGIC DEATH
Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers died on February 28, 2024 aged 66.
The beloved TV chef had battled cancer since 2022, bravely updating fans about his illness.
Hairy Bikers star Si King makes heartbreaking confession 10 months after Dave Myers's death - as he lands new ITV job
Dave found fame alongside Si King, his friend of 30 years, as part of the motorcycle-riding cooking duo.
His co-star announced the tragic news in a statement, prompting a flurry of emotional tributes from celebrity friends and fans alike.
Posting on Twitter, Si said: "Hi everyone, I'm afraid I bear some sad news.
"Most of you will know Dave has been fighting cancer for the past couple of years.
"Last night, on 28th February 2024, with Lili, Dave's wife, his family, close friend David and myself by his side, he passed away peacefully at home.
"All who knew Dave are devastated at his passing. His beloved wife brought him such happiness as did her children, Iza and Sergiu who Dave loved like his own.
"Personally, I am not sure I can put into words on how I feel at the moment. 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. Love ya."
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