Property investor and media columnist Shaf Rasul has died at the age of 55 after falling ill last weekend.
The entrepreneur, who made his fortune in the commercial property world, also appeared as a dragon on the BBC’s Dragons’ Den Online series.
A statement released on behalf of his family read: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Shafqat Rasul.
“A devoted father to Sohaib and Sarah Rasul, a loving husband to Nabila Rasul, a cherished son of the late Haji Ghulam Rasul and Parveen Akhtar, and a dear brother to Zahid, Shahid, Ashfaq, Ml Abid and Juwariah.”
The son of a newsagent, he was born in Lahore, Pakistan, but as a young child he moved with his family to the UK, first to Huddersfield and then to Alloa.
He studied corporate law at the University of Strathclyde, later becoming its first resident entrepreneur.
His career in business took over when he established E-Net Computers and he went on to invest in other projects, including industrial and storage units. He recently unveiled a new development in Alloa.
He had a long association with Tigerbond, the PR agency formerly known as Beattie Media. Group CEO Laurna Woods said: It’s not often that someone like Shaf Rasul crosses your path.
“Over 25 years ago, I walked into his office in Edinburgh’s West End to meet him for the first time and it was one of those encounters you never forget.
“After a gruelling Apprentice-style grilling, we were hired on the spot. He became one of our longest standing clients, and over time, a good friend.
“To learn of his passing this morning was a shock and incredibly sad. Not only one of our country’s most talented entrepreneurs, he was lovable, cheeky and incredibly giving. His energy knew no bounds. We will miss you Shaf and we certainly won’t forget you.”
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