Who was the only woman among Dragon's Den's original five UK dragons?

Rachel Elnaugh was the only woman among Dragon's Den's original five UK dragons.

When the BBC series launched in 2005, the initial panel consisted of Peter Jones, Duncan Bannatyne, Theo Paphitis, John Caudwell and Rachel Elnaugh. Elnaugh was a businesswoman best known for Red Letter Days, a company selling experience gifts such as driving days, spa visits and other special activities.

Her position on the original panel is sometimes confused with Deborah Meaden's later role. Meaden became a dragon in the third series, after the programme had already established its format and audience. Other women, including Kelly Hoppen and Sarah Willingham, joined in subsequent line-ups.

Elnaugh's entrepreneurial background made her particularly associated with consumer gift businesses. Red Letter Days later experienced financial difficulties and was acquired by Theo Paphitis, an event that became part of the wider business story surrounding the programme.