FANS praised the tribute at the end of the first episode of Strictly Come Dancing to Barrow-born Dave Myers and dancer Robin Windsor, who both died this year. 

Best known for being one half of the Hairy Bikers, Dave also starred in the eleventh series of Strictly Come Dancing with partner Karen Hauer in 2013, getting to week seven in the competition. 

Dave died aged 66 in February after a two-year battle with cancer. Robin Windsor was a professional dancer who appeared in the show from 2010 until 2013. He was 44 at the time of his death, also in February. A cause of death has not been revealed. 

The show paid homage to the two stars at the end of the launch episode (Saturday, September 14) for the new series of Strictly.

On X, formerly known as Twitter, Laura Davidson said: "That was a really fun launch show! And lovely dedication to Dave Myers and Robin Windsor at the end." 

"This had me in tears, totally forgot that Dave Myers and Robin Windsor both passed away this year," Aaron Pleming said. 

'Lynda' said: "Oh heck the Dave Myers and Robin Windsor tributes at the end took my breath away a bit." 

Indra Diamandis said: "What a fun first show that was, and the tribute to Dave Myers and Robin Windsor was heartwarming." 

Dave recently won 'Cumbrian of the Year' at the Newsquest Cumbria Life Awards in the Low Wood Bay and Spa Hotel. 

His close-childhood friend Graham Twyford received the award on his behalf.