Dave Day: Barrow community offer homes and gardens to struggling bikers
Many hotels and B&Bs have sold out for the weekend
The community of Barrow have come out on their droves in offering accommodation to traveling motorcyclists heading to the town to celebrate Dave Day this weekend.
The town is preparing to welcome thousands of motorcyclists as part of a day of events to celebrate the life of the Hairy Biker - who passed away in February.
Dave’s friend Jason ‘Woody’ Woodcock is the organiser of Dave Day:
"Dave was very proud of Barrow. He was a working class lad. The reason people love Si and Dave so much is that they're just normal people. What you saw on TV was exactly what they were like in real life - it wasn't a show, wasn't an act - it was just how they were.
"Dave was was very proud of where he was from - he was very proud of his heritage. He was very proud of Barrow. It's been great to see the reaction of Barrow and the surrounding area."
One half of the hugely popular duo the Hairy Bikers, Dave Myers was a proud Barrovian.
The TV chef died in February at the age of 66 following a battle with cancer.
Best friend Si King announced the sad news in a heartbreaking message shared on social media, in which he confirmed he, Dave's wife Lili, his family and close friend David were all by his side as he sadly passed on February 28.
"They say it's grim up North - but it's not grim in Barrow"
Dave Day is expected to attract thousands of people who will descend on Barrow for Dave Day - a huge celebration in memory of the Hairy Biker.
Many of the motorcyclists - who're taking part in the almost 300 mile memorial ride from North London to Barrow - are struggling for somewhere to stay this weekend.
With local accommodation sold out or limited and hotel prices increasing due to a surge in demand, many are being put up by local residents.
Dave's friend 'Woody' continued:
"It's great to see the reaction of people, community and businesses of Barrow.
"Companies are offering free sandwiches to bikers on Sunday as they head off - many are handing out free bacon rolls for breakfast. And more importantly the local people of Barrow - they're offering their houses and gardens - free of charge - because there are no hotels in the town left.
"People are offering their gardens to pitch tents and or use as space to store their motorbikes - and offering breakfast in the morning too - with no charge - but asking riders to make a donation to charity.
"And that's been Barrow all over - that's Dave - that's how Dave was, would do anything for anyone. Barrow has stepped up.
"They say it's grim up North - but it's not grim in Barrow."
Organisers of Dave Day are predicting up to 10,000 motorcyclists will take part - with many starting off in North London and others joining the convoy along the route.
Locally, Westmorland and Furness Council has also issued a warning to people as so many people are expected to be in Barrow, as the ride comes to a close - and a big celebration event takes place.
Council officials are advising local people planning to travel to the town to consider available public transport options.
Celebrations will centre around Barrow Town Hall, with a memorial service and family entertainment also taking place.
Dave Day will culminate in an explosion of culture with events, bands, plays, food stalls, and a concert.