THE DRAGONS Den team has released a statement following the death of a 36-year-old entrepreneur who appeared on last year’s series.
Drew Cockton wowed Touker Souleyman enough to invest £50,000 in his business after appearing on the show in May 2021, but was confirmed to have died today by his mother.
Drew (right) had impressed the Dragons with his candle company
The businessman’s mother confirmed his death in a post on Facebook
Following the news, a BBC spokesman said: “The Dragons’ Den team are very saddened to hear that Drew has passed away. Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this time.”
His mum Kate released a statement on Facebook saying her son had died “peacefully” at home – 17 months after appearing on Dragons’ Den.
It read: “We are truly, utterly heartbroken to have to tell you that our beloved Drew Peter George Cockton (my gorgeous boy) died peacefully at home yesterday.
“We are devastated beyond belief.
“Life is never, ever going to be the same again. Rest Peacefully darling boy.”
The circumstances surrounding Drew’s death are not yet known.
The 36-year-old founded his vegan fragrance brand, Owen Drew, in 2016 after taking a gamble and quitting his job in financial services.
His business partner Mike Skeggs joined six months later.
The candles – costing up to £750 – are made from some of the world’s most expensive oils and perfumes.
They’ve since attracted celebrity fans including socialite Paris Hilton.
His motto was: “Life is not a dress rehearsal.”
Just four days ago, Drew posted on Facebook that he was honoured to have been asked as a guest speaker at Rotary on the Wirral on November 11.
He wrote: “I’ll be talking all about how Mike Skeggs and I built Owen Drew from the ground up, sharing tips and secrets for launching a business on a shoestring, discussing past failures and things I wish I had done differently… as well as covering all things Dragons’ Den.
“We’ll also be exploring fragrance and what goes into making a show stopping perfume.”
Drew’s mum was flooded with messages of condolence on her Facebook page.
One friend wrote: “I am so sorry to hear your sad news. I can’t believe I have seen this post.
“Drew was the most kind and caring person going. He helped me through a hard time when my cats were poorly and had to have both put to sleep. Truly going to be missed by all. RIP Drew.”
Another said: “To say I am devastated is an understatement, Drew you are the most beautiful star in the sky tonight.
“RIP beautiful boy, will never forget you and your beautiful heart and soul.”
His mother said the family were ‘devastated beyond belief’
Touker Suleyman invested in the luxury candle company
