The inventors of an innovative saw horse say they have enjoyed "a phenomenal few months of trading", despite having their bid for investment by the Dragons' Den entrepreneurs rejected.
Cumbria-based Richard Bowness and Steve Tonkin appeared on the BBC2 show in September this year but failed to win funding from the multi-millionaire members of the panel for their Truncator.

The saw horse, which allows for up to 60 logs to be sawn in just 60 seconds with safety and ease, has nevertheless gone on to achieve a successful launch, benefiting from its appearance on the programme and being exhibited at this year's Glee exhibition.

Not only have UK sales and enquiries increased by 225% but the business has now introduced the product into European markets with the appointment of a distributor in the Netherlands and a sales representative in Northern and southern Ireland. Talks with distributors in Poland, the Czech Republic and France are also underway.

Mr Bowness commented: "It's fair to say we've had a phenomenal few months of trading. Not only have we increased our online sales we've grown our stockists in the UK and breached the move into Europe too. It's taken a lot of hard work and determination but we're delighted with the results.

"The first thing customers always ask me is, how did it feel being on Dragons' Den? It's a real talking point. My advice to anyone considering taking part in the show is to go for it, seize the opportunity and don't give up if you don't secure investment."

The Truncator has received a commendation in the Technical Innovation Awards from the Royal Highland & Agricultural Society of Scotland, and won Best Product at the CLA Game Fair.