'I’d often drop her name in Corrie as shorthand for business brilliance': Tributes pour in for Bolton-born Dragons' Den star Hilary Devey

Tributes have poured in for the Bolton -born TV personality, Hilary Devey, after news of her death was announced on Sunday (June 12). She died in Morocco after battling a long illness and had been staying at her holiday home when she passed away.

Hilary shot to fame on BBC business show Dragons' Den where the Boltonian’s no-nonsense approach became a hit with fans. She also featured on the Secret Millionaire in 2008, giving money to a Rochdale music project, and presented The Business Inspector in 2010.

After leaving school at the age of 16, Hilary took on a wild range of jobs - including a stint in the Women's RAF - before finally seeking her fortune. The enterprising star eventually sold her house and her car to set up her business Pall-Ex which went on to be worth millions.

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Social media has been inundated with touching messages from fans. Deborah Meaden shared: “Very sad to learn that Hilary Devey has passed away at only 65. She was unique in every way and brought grit and warmth with her into the Den. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones. RIP Hilary. Truly one of a kind.”

Local fan Oliver Findlay replied to the fellow Dragon: “Hilary Devey was fantastic, if anybody asks 'what are mums like in Bolton' Hilary Devey is the answer. Down to earth, took no c**p and a heart of gold. She will be missed.”

Social media user Sian Thymes reminisced about one of Hilary’s iconic lines, after she reprimanded a Dragons' Den contestant.

“Hilary Devey was such a breath of fresh air when she came on Dragons' Den,” reads the tweet in tribute. “I was obsessed when she gave this guy a dressing down. To this day I still think