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Dragons' Den audiences have said the BBC programme needs a permanent new investor instead of rotating guest appearances each week.

The hit show has returned for a new series, but Dragon Sara Davies has taken a step back from the Den, creating a vacancy alongside Deborah Meaden, Peter Jones, Touker Suleyman and Steven Bartlett.

Rather than appointing a permanent investor, the series will showcase guest Dragons. Last week witnessed REFY co-founder and CEO Jenna Meek join the panel, whilst former footballer Gary Neville participated in the episode broadcast on Thursday night (February 5).

Whilst fans are delighted to see the programme back on air, some have expressed a preference for a permanent addition.

"Can we have a permanent Dragon please rather then all the pop ups!?" one viewer wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, reports the Mirror.

"It's guests every week," complained another, whilst someone else asked: "Where is Sara?"

"Have I missed something, why is Gary Neville on Dragons' Den?" questioned another audience member.

One viewer posted: "Really prefer this with the 5 permanent Dragons. Sara is big miss."

Another remarked on the platform: "I don't like Dragons' Den with the new people as guests, they come in for one episode and lo and behold there is a business pitching and idea that is up their alley and you know they will invest. Keep the og format. Raw business ideas being pitched to great entrepreneurs."

Sara revealed last year that she was leaving the beloved BBC show to concentrate on her own crafting enterprise.

She shared with her followers on Instagram: "As this last run of Dragons' comes to an end I have to say I've loved every minute of this series so far and I'm so proud of the businesses I've invested in this year!

"As many of you will be aware, I've resumed my role as CEO of Crafter's Companion and my business is my main focus this year. When I commit to a business, I fully commit, which is why I find Dragons' Den such a rewarding role. In addition to filming an amazing show, being a Dragon demands a great deal of dedication and time behind the scenes as you become part of each business you invest in.

"It involves following through with your investment and fulfilling your role in that organisation. It's much more than just a TV show. That's why I've made the decision to step back from the Den for now, to focus on my own business, which was my first baby!"

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Dragons' Den airs on BBC One.