Which presenter hosted the first 12 series of the BBC show Dragon's Den?

Evan Davis hosted the first 12 series of the BBC show Dragon's Den.

Davis is a British economist, journalist and broadcaster who became the programme's original presenter when the UK version launched. His role was to introduce entrepreneurs, explain the investment proposals and guide viewers through negotiations with the Dragons.

He remained associated with the programme through its early and middle years, helping establish its recognisable format for British audiences. Davis later left the presenting role, and the show continued with other hosts, including Sarah Beeny and then Evan Davis's successor roles in the wider BBC presenting lineup.

The programme is sometimes confused with Dragons' Den in other countries, because the franchise has many local hosts. The question refers specifically to the long-running British BBC version, not the original Japanese format or an international adaptation.