A Dragons’ Den star was found dead in a woodland area (Image: BBC)
A Dragons’ Den star was found dead in a woodland area, an inquest heard.
The court heard how businessman Graeme Turner, 53, was found dead on October 1 in Pwllheli in the heart of North Wales. The entrepreneur appeared on the show back in 2010 when he pitched his children’s customisable wallpape kit to investors.
His wallpaper kit allowed parents to change their kids’ rooms into their favourite football stadium. The graphic designer asked for a sum of £50,000 for five per cent in his company, but judges decided to pass on his opportunity.
Despite the Dragons turning down his offer, he continued with his business without their financial support. Coroner Kate Robertson gave a verdict of death by suidice in the hearing on Monday (January 20) after his funeral took place on January 16.
His son shared a heartfelt post on Facebook, writing: “I have just lost the best, strongest, kindest, most loyal, courageous dad I have ever had and known, he was the godfather the inspiration in my life. I am devastated and that is an understatement.”
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The freelance graphic designer pitched his business idea in 2010 (Image: BBC)
Close friends of the doting dad described him as “a kind man” who was the “life and soul of the party.” After the tragic news hit the headlines, fans flooded to social media to share heartfelt tributes online
One user penned: “It’s with a heavy heart to announce we lost a very good friend and past member of The Supporters Club prior to Christmas. Graeme Turner sadly passed away after a long battle with illness.”
Another echoed: “A great man and I had the privilege to be in his companuy on many occasions in my time.” A third added: “Very sad news, Graeme was a true gentleman and will be sadly missed by all Condolences to Graeme family and friends.”
The investment programme first hit the airwaves back in 2005 and has attracted hundreds of budding entrepreneurs from up and down the country lookng to take their products to the next level.
It’s been a TV institution for years, but for every success on the show, there are dozens more that never secure investment. Rather than accept defeat after missing out on investment, many have defied expectations and become huge success stories after walking away from the den empty-handed.
From misjudged products to unfairly dismissed busienss models by the likes of Peter Jones, Deborah Meaden, and Theo Paphitis, many have made their names without the help of the show.
If you or someone you know has been affected by this story, Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year.
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