Wholesaler rallies the electrical industry to help Carlisle’s Storm Desmond flood victims

When Carlisle was faced with devastating floods for the second times in 10 years, independent electrical wholesaler, David Freshwater, of Premier Electrical Limited, galvanised the industry into action.

Once the cameras, politicians and visiting Royalty had been and gone, the community faced the immense task of clearing up after Storm Desmond – something that will take at least a year.

David told us: “Rising insurance premiums and high excesses meant the vulnerable – pensioners, single parents and others – were not insured and the devastation was immense. So I decided to contact some of our suppliers to see if between us we could do something to help. The response was phenomenal.”

After flood defences failed, around 3,500 homes were left under water, along with the council offices and much of the city.

Said David: “The flood defences just couldn’t cope with the unprecedented amount of rain that fell over the weekend of December 5^th and 6th.”

Swinging into action, David got on the phone and persuaded a number of companies to help, including Ansell Lighting, Wylex, JCC Lighting, Collingwood, Lumineux, Osram, Manrose, BG, MK and DETA.

Continues David: “They very generously sent free goods which we have been distributing to uninsured victims to help ease some of the pain.

“I am incredibly grateful to the suppliers who have helped the city of Carlisle and the individuals affected. Their kindness will remembered by many for the rest of their lives.”