A poverty-stricken childhood steeled Duncan's drive to make his fortune from an early age. His first entrepreneurial venture was Duncan’s Super Ices in the North East of England, which expanded from a single ice cream van to a small fleet. 

He then switched to nursing homes, becoming a multi-millionaire in the process. Since then Duncan has built up a chain of health clubs called 'Bannatyne's' and also owns Bannatyne's Casino, Bar and Hotels.

Estimated to be worth in the region of £200m, Duncan holds an OBE and was recently awarded an honorary Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) from Glasgow Caledonian University for services to business and charity.

He was also North Region Entrepreneur of the Year 2003 and Master Entrepreneur Of The Year 2003 for the North Region.

Duncan has six children and he and his family have properties in England and France.