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A start-up business managed to successfully secure financial backing on the sixth episode of BBC1’s Dragon’s Den TV programme last night with its hands-free powered wheelchair.

Cristian Brownlee and Matthew Walker, founders of Adapt Ability were among the successful entrepreneurs to feature on the programme.

The Adapt Ability Omeo powerchair that they were showcasing was such a strong proposition that it led Steven Bartlett to offer all his money, with the social media mogul telling Brownlee’s that his story hit him in “the feels”.

Believing it will change the lives of many, the pair won the backing of three dragons – Sara Davies, Steven Bartlett and Touker Suleyman.

Founded in 2020, the Omeo technology originates in New Zealand and is assembled into the self-balancing chair by Adapt Ability. Instead of the wheelchair user pushing their own wheels, they can propel and shift direction using their bodyweight.

Adapt Ability says that the Omeo works on all terrains, muddy paths, gravel or sandy beaches. And because it’s hands-free, you can hold things while moving.

The Omeo self-balancing powerchair retails at £17,630, and the company recommends that wheelchair users trial the mobility device before making an order.

Watch the video below to see the Omeo self-balancing powered wheelchair in action: