Forty Thousand Bikers Gather for Final Dave Myers Memorial Ride to Barrow

Approximately forty thousand motorcyclists are making their way from London to Barrow-in-Furness for the third and final Dave Day memorial ride honoring television chef Dave Myers, who died from cancer in 2024 at age 66. The procession, led by Myers' Hairy Biker co-presenter Si King, departs from the Ace Cafe in London at 07:00 and is expected to reach Barrow around 15:30, passing through Oxford, Solihull, Knutsford, and Lancaster along the route.

Scale and Route Details

The motorcycle procession will travel approximately 250 miles through multiple counties, with authorities implementing several road closures and diversions to manage the expected congestion. The route proceeds via the A590 into Ulverston before heading toward Barrow, where significant disruptions are anticipated around junction 36 of the M6 motorway. Market Street car park in Barrow has been reserved exclusively for motorcycles participating in the ride, while local councils have designated viewing areas along the route for spectators.

Ulverston Town Council and Barrow Business Improvement District have issued guidance requesting that onlookers remain behind barriers and refrain from attempting high-fives with passing riders, citing safety concerns during the large gathering.

Charity Impact and Legacy

Previous Dave Day rides have generated substantial charitable donations, with 125,000 pounds raised in the inaugural event and 134,000 pounds contributed following the 2024 ceremony. Myers' widow, Lili, traveled to his childhood home in Barrow last week, reflecting on how the town remained central to his identity throughout his career. She stated that Myers "never lost his roots" and that Barrow was "where he got his sense of fairness," emphasizing the hometown connection that made the memorial tradition meaningful.

Final Ride Arrangements

Event organizer Jason Woodcock announced that this year's ride will be the last official Dave Day gathering, citing funding challenges and logistical complications. Unlike previous years, there will be no formal registration process, and Woodcock will not be leading the procession. He clarified that participants are riding voluntarily and that "what happens in Barrow is nothing to do with us," distancing the informal gathering from official organization while encouraging riders to participate on their own terms.