How did you get started in your line of business?

By accident. I had a bad accident skiing one year on holiday, and, when I returned home, I needed to build up the tendons and ligaments in my leg. I could not find a good health club near to where I lived and ended up having to travel quite some distance. So I found out how many members they had. Obviously, I knew how much the membership was and decided to open my own health club - then I opened a second, and a third, and now I have 62.

What one piece of advice were you given that helped you become successful?

I can’t remember ever being given any good advice which helped me become successful, I just worked very hard.

What was the worst mistake you've ever made in business?

I would say my worst mistake in business would be when I invested in a company called Lady in Leisure. I paid £1million for 10% of the business, and I ended up resigning before it went in to receivership, which resulted in me losing my investment.

Why did you decide to take time out of your busy schedule to do Dragons' Den?

I thought Dragons' Den was an excellent concept when I first heard about it and loved the idea of entrepreneurs pitching their ideas for investment. I knew that it would give entrepreneurs a chance to shine through.

What's the most common mistake people make during pitches?

The most common mistake I think pitchers make is overvaluing their business and asking too much money for not enough percentage of their business.

How should people determine how much money they should ask for from investors?

That all depends on the value of the business on the day of the presentation.

What was the worst pitch you ever heard?

Oh my God, that is easy: it has to be a lady called Gayle Blanchflower. She was pitching cardboard beach furniture. I have no idea who wants to buy cardboard furniture. It would soon be ruined when you came out of the sea wet and sat on it. The lady was just plain rude and had no personality.

What was your favorite pitch, one pitch that stands out?

It would have to be Anthony Coates-Smith & Alistair Turner from Igloo Thermo Logistics Ltd. They clearly knew their business inside out, and that is how it should be. They now operate 45 food vans and by far the most successful investment made on Dragons' Den to date.

Was there a pitch that you passed on that you now wish you'd accepted?

No

If you could give three tips for the perfect pitch, what would they be?

Be confident.
Be brief.
Know your figures.

Do you think entrepreneurs are more creative in the UK than in America?

I have no idea, but I am sure we can analyze that when you start showing Dragons' Den in America.

What fields are you thinking about investing in?

I am really looking to expand my health club chain, my hotel chain and my sensory spa chain. These are what I specialize in, and these are what I will invest further in. However, there will be other investments through Dragons' Den, and investing in new businesses is always exciting.

Read our Q&A with Peter Jones.