THE couple behind an invention that aims to ensure tall people get a good night’s sleep will venture into TV’s Dragons’ Den tonight, Thursday, January 12.

The PillowShelf has been described by its inventors as “arguably the biggest invention this century for anyone over 6ft tall”.

Devised by Ringwood couple Kris and Martin Andrew, it is an extension that can be attached to any divan bed. It is aimed at the hospitality industry as well as domestic users.

Kris said: “Martin and I were incredibly excited heading into the Den. It’s one thing to pitch an idea to a potential investor but when you add another four, plus the fact it’s going to be broadcast on television, that’s another story. We were incredibly nervous; Dragons’ Den can be a make-or-break opportunity for most.

“Originally it was only going to be myself appearing in the Den, I’d prepped my presentation over the course of a few months and then rehearsed it. With the process being as nerve-wracking as it was, Martin and I decided we’d face the Den together. We re-worked the presentation, re-rehearsed together and then we went in.

“Filming the show was a great process to go through, and the Dragons were all lovely and encouraging. It was a really positive experience for us and our business, we can’t wait to see the episode air and to see what everyone else thinks of our invention.”

The couple invented the PIllowShelf in 2013, driven by the sleepless nights caused by the fact that 6ft 2ins tall Martin would often wake up with his feet hanging out of their super king sized bed.

They devised a shelf that would support the top of the pillow and allow them to sleep further up the bed, creating a 7ft long sleeping space.

The invention turned into a business after a tall friend stayed with them.

“Our friend was so impressed, they had a rare, uninterrupted good night’s sleep and wanted one for themselves,” said Kris.

“We made the PillowShelf portable with adjustable legs to suit every divan bed. It was important to us that the product can be installed and removed within minutes with absolutely zero changes to the bed or bedding as it comes with its own sheet.

“We realised that a huge part of our market would be hospitality where hotels and accommodation providers can offer a longer bed option in minutes at very little cost, providing the ultimate sleeping experience for all guests, tall or short.

"This is what makes this a life changing piece of furniture for taller people everywhere and arguably the biggest invention this century for anyone over 6ft tall.”

  • Dragons’ Den is on BBC One, tonight, Thursday, January 12, at 8pm.