Former Dragons’ Den star Hilary Devey has died aged 65.
The British businesswoman and entrepreneur passed away in Morocco on Saturday after a long illness, her PR rep confirmed on Sunday.
Ms. Devey was awarded an OBE in 2013 for her services to the transport industry and philanthropy.
She is known for appearing on the BBC’s long-term investment program Dragons’ Den before leaving to present the Channel 4 series The Intern.
Countryman ‘Dragon’ Theo Paphitis paid tribute to Ms Devey, saying: “So sad to hear the lovely Hilary Devey has passed away.
“She left us all wonderful memories, may she rest in peace. My thoughts are with her family.”
Duncan Bannatyne also commented on this news: “Too young. Too young. Rest in peace in Hilary”.
Ms Devey made her fortune launching Pall-Ex, a packaged freight network, which has grown into an international network with a combined turnover of more than £100 million.
She appeared on Dragons’ Den between 2011 and 2013 alongside fellow investors Peter Jones, Theo Paphitis, Duncan Bannatyne and Deborah Meaden.
Commenting on her role in 2011, Ms Devey said she was proud to “do her part” to support the UK’s next generation of entrepreneurs “at a time when banks are failing. investing in British small businesses”.
She added: “In order to start Pall-Ex in the mid-nineties, I had to sell my house and car to get the start-up capital needed to realize my business ambitions, as there was no Which bank appreciates my potential.
“I would love to have the opportunity to stand in front of the Dragons, and I will remember my own experiences and the realities of running a business today, choosing to support – or reject – new entrepreneurs. join me in the Den.”
Her Dragons’ Den investments include luxury mattress company Duvalay, run by husband and wife team Liz and Alan Colleran.
Ms Devey has also campaigned for various charities including serving as vice president of The Carers Trust, as well as being a patron of the Stroke Association and Fresh Start.
