A BOLTON plumbing and heating company is flushed with success after celebrating 10 years in business.

Bain Plumbing Services, based on the Boundary Industrial Estate in Breightmet, came into being after Colin Bain and his wife Selena met at Turton Leisure Centre where they both worked as lifeguards while at university.

Colin was taking a criminology degree, but when he qualified he decided instead to be a plumber. Selena was taking a business degree so, after Colin studied for his plumbing qualifications, she was able to help him set up the business.

Colin was a sole trader for two years before the couple decided to start their own limited company in 2006. They took on an apprentice, later adding a full-time plumber, then a heating engineer. Today, there are eight staff and the business is about to employ a contracts’ manager to help cope with the workload.

The company offers full plumbing and heating services – from burst pipes and boiler replacement to central heating installation, under-floor heating, landlord’s gas safety certificates and full bathroom renovations.

Their business model always combined professional service with the kind of customer care that means much of their work comes by personal recommendation. “If there is ever a snag of any kind, we insist that it’s sorted straight away,” explained Mrs Bain.

This attention to detail has helped them attract, and keep, customers. They work with many residential clients but also schools, and are currently working with Bolton at Home to install disabled facilities in properties.

The company has seen major changes over the past decade, especially in bathrooms. “It used to be just a bath, basin and w.c. but now there are illuminated mirrors, TVs, spas and wet rooms,” added Mrs Bain. “In fact, wet rooms are very popular.”

As a family firm, they also believe in giving back to the community and are using their anniversary year to help local charities Bolton Society for Blind People and Bolton Young Persons Housing Scheme.

“We’re very grateful for the success of the past 10 years,” stated Mrs Bain. “Now we’re looking forward to the next 10!”