AN ASPIRING Basildon entrepreneur who runs a business selling rare football memorabilia will attempt to wow judges as he appears on Dragons’ Den. 

Billy Childs, 27, will star in a special episode of the BBC One show on Thursday featuring football pundit and former Manchester United star Gary Neville.

During the episode, he will attempt to convince the panel of judges to invest in his business, BC Boots UK. 

Since launching his businesses in 2021, he has built a huge social media presence selling some of the rarest football memorabilia, including boots and shirts worn by some of football’s biggest stars. 

Echo: Pitching - Billy in the denPitching - Billy in the den (Image: BBC)

Billy decided to apply for the show in October 2022 to raise his businesses profile, but has said the appearance also “opened his eyes to being open with changes”.

Billy said: “I’ve definitely grown as a businessman thanks to being so fortunate to appear on Dragons’ Den.

“The feedback from the business tycoons really opened my eyes to a different perspective to the business and made me realise to be open about change.

“BC Boots specialises in offering a unique chance for collectors to acquire exceptionally rare, one-of-a-kind football memorabilia, such as match worn shirts from top players.

“However, the idea of also giving some money to charity as opposed to keeping all profits was raised, and that was a really good idea.

“It was quite fitting that I got to do my pitch in front of Gary given the football connection, and this opportunity will enable me to share my vision with a wider audience and gather insights from some of the industry’s most prominent business icons.

“I’m truly thankful.”

On Thursday at 8pm, audiences will hear how Billy brings football fans closer to the action than ever before, by connecting them directly with the items worn by their favourite football stars, with a focus on authenticity and a commitment to worldwide accessibility.

BC Boots has rapidly gained attention from both collectors and enthusiasts from across the globe, building 158,000 Instagram followers over the past three years.

All items sold, such as match worn boots, shirts and more, come with a full certificate of authenticity.

Billy’s episode airs Thursday at 8pm on BBC One.