Dragons’ Den star Drew Cockton, 36, found dead after winning £50k investment for candle firm that became celeb-favourite

DRAGONS' Den star Drew Cockton has died at home aged 36, his mother has revealed.

The TV star who pitched his scented candle business on the BBC had secured a £50,000 invested from entrepreneur Touker Suleyman.

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.

Drew - who appeared on Dragons' Den in May 2021 - attracted celebrity fans including socialite Paris Hilton.

Paris shared her upset today, writing: “Devastated to hear the news of my friend & #LittleHilton @mrowendrew. 😭💔 He was so kind with a heart of gold.

“My heart breaks for his loved ones & family. Sending them all my condolences & so much love. RIP sweet soul❤️🙏 Love you forever my friend😢.”

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 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 under statement, Drew you are the most beautiful star in the sky tonight.

"RIP beautiful boy ,will never forget you and your beautiful heart and soul."

Someone else: "I'm devastated. RIP beautiful boy Drew you will be sadly missed you had a heart of pure gold flight high see you on the other side.