Burnley plumber hailed a hero after doing free work for over 50,000 vulnerable customers

A plumber from Burnley has been hailed a hero after doing free work for over 50,000 elderly and vulnerable customers across the region.

James Anderson founded Depher Plumbing Services in 2017 when he came across a company trying to overcharge and scam an elderly and disabled customer out of over £5,000.

In a bid to right the wrongs made by these ‘rogue traders’, James started offering his services to those who needed them the most completely free of charge.

Today, these services include plumbing repairs, heating repairs, gas safety inspections, boiler repairs and heating control repairs, all completed with a ‘smile’ and ‘respect’. 

Though James’ services aren’t just limited to boilers; his charity also goes above and beyond to make sure empty fridges are filled, bills are paid. They even buy nappies for parents struggling to buy baby supplies for their children.

And today, James has gained the respect of the whole nation after appearing on Good Morning Britain, where he revealed that in the last five years, Depher Plumbing Services has assisted over 50,000 elderly and vulnerable customers.

Speaking to presenters Adil Ray and Charlotte Hawkins, James said of the charity’s ethos: “We are there to see to people, remove the stigma, remove the elephant in the room, get rid of it.

“Come to us, whatever you need, we will deal with that for you and then, the after affects, we can get help for you on that as well.

“It’s all down to coming together as a community, companies especially coming together, and having that community awareness that some people out there cannot do this themselves.”

James also addressed the worrying new energy bill forecast, saying that if urgent plans aren’t put into place by the end of the week, there will be ‘catastrophic results’.

He said: “The Government needs to open its eyes because if they don’t people will die. It’s not going to be if or when, people will die.”

Viewers were amazed by James’ selflessness and kind spirit, with one writing on social media: “James Anderson is a shining beacon of humanity. He is a true hero and peoples champion. Politicians take note and help people in the ingenious way James does.”

Another noted: “Bravo to James the plumber for offering his services free to the needy… A touching insight into the realities of the energy crisis.”

Though this isn’t James’ first time in the spotlight, with the plumber gaining fame last year thanks to a generous donation from none other than actor Hugh Grant.

James admitted that he had to look twice before believing the British film star had made the donation to his GoFundMe page, with him telling ITV Granada at the time: “I didn’t believe it was him… It’s a shock but it’s wonderful.”

James’ new fundraiser aiming to help elderly and vulnerable households with the cost of living crisis has raised over £120,000.

To donate and read more about his cause, click here.