Which Dragon joined Britain's Dragon's Den in 2006 and became a long-term investor?

Deborah Meaden joined Britain's Dragon's Den in 2006 and became a long-term investor.

Meaden entered the programme after building a career in business and investment. On the show, she evaluates entrepreneurs' products, services, financial figures and proposed equity arrangements. Her direct questioning and emphasis on commercial fundamentals made her one of the best-known members of the British panel.

The 2006 date is important because it distinguishes Meaden from the original Dragons and from later arrivals. Kelly Hoppen, Jenny Campbell and Sara Davies all became associated with the programme at different times. The changing panel is one reason viewers sometimes attach the wrong joining year to a familiar Dragon.

Meaden's television profile is connected with Dragon's Den, but her business career extends beyond broadcasting. She has also been associated with investments, public speaking and business commentary, making her a prominent example of a real entrepreneur serving as a television investor.