The Block favourites Ricky and Haydn make shock career announcement

The Block fan favourites Ricky and Haydn took to social media on Monday to make a very surprising career announcement.

The Melbourne-based best mates shared a clip to Instagram in which they excitedly told fans about their new online merchandise business, for which they sell copies of the colourful Balzac hats they wore on the series.

'Guess what guys, we are finally live! Jump on and get a Ricky and Haydn hat, it's the best Christmas present ever!' they excitedly told followers.

The eye-popping vintage-inspired Balzac hats are decorated in a variety of abstract colourful patterns, and became known as the cheeky duo's favourite accessory during their stint on the Channel Nine show. 

'There is limited numbers so first in best dressed. There’s not one hat that’s the same, they’re all individual. Everyone gets their own hat,' Ricky added.

The headwear items are selling for $49.99 each, with the first 100 buyers also scoring a free pair of fluoro shoelaces. 

Many of their fans quickly took to the comment section to express their excitement at the new business venture. 

'Got me hat ordered legends. Keen to be a fun factory member,' one keen fan wrote.

'I'm so excited that you’ve done this! I can’t wait to see which design turns up in the mail!' a second person added.

'So good! Our 10yo is going to be stoked!' a third user chipped in. 

Ricky and Haydn developed a reputation on The Block for their flamboyant fashion choices and cheeky outgoing personalities.

It comes after Ricky revealed the tragic personal loss that helped push him to audition for Nine's ratings blockbuster.

The plumber said he wanted to pay tribute to his mate Lachey, who was killed in 2012 by a drunk driver at age 23.

'I hope that at the end of this life he will be standing there applauding me and going "well done, mate, you couldn't have given it any more",' he said.

Interviewed for New Idea magazine, Ricky said it took him many months to get over the loss.

In one heartbreaking admission, the pipey said he frequently visited the cemetery where his mate was buried to weep over the grave.

'Eventually time passes, and I knew Lachey didn't want me there at his tomb crying,' Ricky explained.

Ricky said after his mate's life was cut short he wanted to make the most of every opportunity that came along.

'That's one thing I've done since 2012,' he continued. 'I've made sure I've grasped everything with two hands. I never walk past an open door without at least having a look.'

As the contest has got underway, Ricky has won over huge legions of fans with many viewers calling him their celebrity crush as they commented on his looks.

Fans have also been left charmed by his positive attitude and cheeky sense of humour, taking to social media to claim Ricky's Yellow Team as their favourites.