Troon plumber David’s invention is boilinghot

Sep 24 2010 by Lisa Boyle, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

A PLUMBER who invented a life saving water boiler has been shortlisted for a top award.

David Osborne developed the Jompy boiler in his spare time.

And over the last year, it has made a massive difference to the lives of people in the developing world.

The affordable device kills bacteria in water, making it safe enough to drink.

Now, David has been chosen as one of the 12 finalists of a worldwide competition.

He explained: “Voting for the BBC World Challenge Awards begins on September 27.

“Videos will be uploaded on to the website and people will vote for their best choice for the award.

“The BBC has filmed footage for the online video and a television program which will be shown on October, 9.”

It’s the latest success for Troon man David who has also been in talks with the Red Cross about his invention.

And last year, he took the Jompy out to Kenya to showcase it at the Nairobi International Trade Fair.

The Jompy works by taking in cold water through one pipe and swirling it around tightly coiled copper piping placed on a fire before sending the steaming hot water out of another pipe.

And while the Jompy is working, the coiled piping can be used like an oven ring.

David, 36, explained: “The Jompy takes the cultural norm of heating water in a pan over a fire, and significantly speeds up the process.

“By boiling water around four times quicker than traditional methods, it will enable households to use their fuel more efficiently, ultimately reducing household wood smoke and positively impacting on the environment.

“Plus the solar attachment is a way to introduce the concept of renewable energy to very traditional, conservative communities who may be resistant to abandoning the age-old tried and tested ways.”

Now in its sixth year, World Challenge is a global competition aimed at finding projects or small businesses from around the world that have shown enterprise and innovation at a grassroots level.

It is about championing and rewarding projects and businesses which really make a difference.

For more information on David’s invention, log on to www.celsiussolar.com

And to help him win the BBC World Challenge Award log on to www.worldchallenge.co.uk