'Nightmare' Dragon's Den entrepreneur turns down his only offer

Viewers said the Dragons "dodged a bullet"

BBC Dragon's Den fans shocked by 'nightmare' entrepreneur's decision

BBC Dragon's Den fans were shocked tonight by the behaviour of a "nightmare" entrenpreneur.

In an episode of the hit show first shown just as the pandemic struck, Patrick Tatham entered the famous Den with his suit bag concept, which works at keeping suits and shirts protected and crease-free while travelling.

The former banker turned business journalist wanted £75,000 for a 10% stake in his business.

After his pitch, the dragons began their interrogation and discovered he had taken out director's loans of £120,000 to start the company.

The dragons were concerned by this debt.

But Patrick said: "I really don't think it's debts."

Dragon Deborah Meadon replied: "It is debt. A director's loan is a debt. That is money sitting on the balance sheet as money owed to somebody.

Patrick said: "I agree it's a liability. Anyway, let's not split hairs."

Deborah was surprised by his response and said: "Oh."

The awkward interaction wasn't the most shocking part of his pitch, as three Dragons declared themselves out of investing, leaving just Sara Davies to make him an offer.

Dragon Sara told Patrick she thought his product would sell well on shopping channels like QVC.

She offered £75,000 but for a 50% of his business which would drop to 35% once he had returned her investment to her.

Patrick was unhappy with Sara's offer.

Sara said: "You're allowed to make me a counter offer."

But Patrick replied: "I think we're too far apart."

Dragon Peter Jones told him to make a counter offer, but he declined as he didn't believe Sara's offer reflected the business's value.

Patrick said: "I think I would forever be resentful for accepting that evaluation. We're done. I'm so sorry."

Patrick, in a shock move, left the Den without a deal or a Dragon.

The Dragons, and viewers, were shocked by his reaction.

Viewers took to Twitter to share their thoughts.

Twitter user @lalavie444 said: "Patrick seems very deluded."

And Twitter user @Milo_Miles joked: "Did Patrick realise he was on Dragon's Den?"

Back at the time the show first aired, Rob commented: "He would be a nightmare to work with. Gives the impression his view is always the right view. Best to stay out on his own."

Luke said: "I'm beginning to think that Patrick might well regret the decision that he has made."

Scott added: "Wow what a f****** helmet not making a counter offer [monkey emoji]".

Brad said: "Patrick- The guys self importance is too much. Dragons definitely dodged a bullet."

James added: "I tend to have the same reactions as @DeborahMeaden. Didn’t like/trust him".