A plumber from Alnwick has been recognised as one of the best in the UK after finishing runner-up in the country’s first-ever Plumber Awards
James Bell-Taylor, owner of JBT Plumbing and Heating Ltd, secured one of the top three places in The Plumber Awards 2026 after impressing judges with his technical expertise, problem-solving skills and commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.
Having already been crowned the best plumber in the North East earlier this year, James went on to compete against regional winners from across the UK. Following a rigorous judging process, technical challenge and public vote, he was named national runner-up in the inaugural awards.
A bespoke solution under real constraints
Judges were particularly impressed by James’ ability to tackle complex projects and deliver bespoke solutions for his customers. His award-winning entry detailed a full bathroom and heating upgrade within a flat in a listed building. Despite the challenges posed by limited space and listed building regulations, James successfully transformed the property’s heating and hot water system, significantly improving comfort and efficiency for the homeowner.
Speaking about his achievement, James said: “I’m extremely proud of what I’ve achieved and it was a real highlight being able to bring this trophy home to my family, who are the people I’m doing all this for! Thank you to everyone who’s been in touch to congratulate me. This industry really is filled with brilliant people so I’m humbled to have been rated so highly.”
Laura Mashiter, founder of The Plumber Awards, said: “James demonstrated exactly the qualities we were looking for in our finalists. His entry showcased outstanding technical knowledge, excellent problem-solving and a real commitment to delivering the best possible outcome for his customer. To finish as runner-up in the first-ever Plumber Awards, against such strong competition from across the UK, is a fantastic achievement and one he should be incredibly proud of.”,
Setting the benchmark in the awards’ first year
The Plumber Awards was launched this year to celebrate the exceptional skill, professionalism and dedication of plumbers across the UK. The programme was created by the team behind the long-standing Heating Installer Awards, which has spent more than a decade years recognising excellence among heating installers and promoting best practice across the industry.
Designed to shine a spotlight on plumbers who consistently deliver outstanding workmanship and customer service, the free-to-enter awards aim to champion a profession that plays a vital role in keeping homes and businesses running safely and efficiently. Judges commented that the standard of entries in the awards’ inaugural year was exceptionally high, setting a strong benchmark for future competitions.
Celebrated at InstallerSHOW 2026
James received his award at InstallerSHOW 2026 at the NEC Birmingham in June, where leading manufacturers, installers and industry professionals gathered to celebrate innovation and excellence across the sector. As one of the competition’s top-performing entrants, he also received prizes from the awards’ sponsors including CT1, Kingsbridge, Polypipe Building Products, Powered Now, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering and Refresh.
Could you be one of our 2027 winners?
The search is beginning for the exceptional plumbing professionals who will follow in James’ footsteps.
The Plumber Awards is free to enter and open to plumbers across the UK who can demonstrate outstanding work, technical skill, problem-solving and customer care.
Pre-register for The Plumber Awards 2027 and put your work forward for national recognition.
