03 February 2023 , 10:53
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Dragons' Den viewers were shocked last night as the grandson of ex Bargain Hunt presenter David Dickinson secured a £35,000 for his debit card business.
Myles Dickinson, 19, said that he had been inspired to succeed by his famous relative - after becoming the youngest ever Dragon's Den contestant.
The teenager struck a deal on the hit show last night after pitching his custom metal debit card business. He fielded interest from three dragons before agreeing to £35k for a 35% stake with Steven Bartlett, 30.
Successful Myles, who was 18 when the show was recorded, said that his grandad's success is something he looks up to - and hopes to emulate.
David, 81, made his living as an antiques dealer and was best known for presenting BBC's Bargain Hunt and his daytime show Dickinson's Real Deal on ITV.
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Daytime TV host David DickinsonMyles said: "Obviously my grandad is very successful so I feel the pressure to follow in his footsteps and become successful as well.
"I put my life and soul into this company, and I am thrilled to have the support of a dragon to run my business."
Viewers of the BBC One programme were stunned by Myles' link to David.
One fan said on Twitter : "Do like the custom cards on #dragonsden very cool and he’s David Dickinson’s grandson!"
Another wrote: "Can’t believe David Dickinson’s grandson is on dragons den!!!!"
Myles Dickinson was made an offer by three dragons (BBC)A third penned: "David Dickinson's grandson coming on for investment is some insane storylining."
Myles, from Manchester, founded his company Haze in November 2021 while he was in his first year of university.
He was studying banking and finance in London but quickly dropped out to focus full-time on running the company.
The premise of the product is it is entirely customisable stainless steel, available in different colours, designs -and with the option to add personal photos as well.
Prior to appearing on the show, Myles had used his maintenance loan to buy the machinery and build a website for his business.
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The young entrepreneur started by employing his flat mates and making the stainless steel bank cards in his university dorm.
On Dragons' Den, Myles impressed Peter Jones, Touker Suleyman and Steven with his youth, business acumen and product - and all three made him an offer. Spoilt for choice, Myles weighed up his options, but eventually decided to accept Steven's investment.
And, the business has been thriving ever since, much to the delight of Steven and his famous grandfather.
The dragons were impressed by Myles, with him choosing Steven Bartlett eventually (BBC)Myles says David has been extremely supportive of his business venture, and that he's been largely inspired by his grandfather's success.
He said: "When family members do well in life, it inspires and motivates you to do the same.
"Going on the show at 18 years old was nerve-racking, but I was confident that my business had what it took to secure an investment.
"It wasn't just the money which I was after, I also wanted to benefit from the guidance and experience of having a dragon as a mentor."