I earn hundreds at Christmas doing a job everyone hates or is scared of… and the money isn’t even the best part
He's already had nearly 50 requests this year for the often difficult job
AN ELECTRICIAN who earns hundreds of extra pounds at Christmas doing a job nobody wants to has revealed how the money isn’t even the best part.
Josh Thornton, 28, came up with the business idea last year after helping out a family for Diwali.
The family’s dad, who usually puts the lights up himself, was ill and it would have been too dangerous for him to try and get on the roof.
Stepping in, Josh, from Selsdon, south London, decorated the home instead.
After putting up the lights, the electrician realised he had found a niche.
Encouraged by his wife Courtney, 26, Josh then posted on social media to see if anyone else in the area wanted help with their Christmas lights.
From there, things quickly took off.
Josh said he’s already booked in to do nearly 50 houses this year, and the appointments “keep coming in”.
The 28-year-old, who has been an electrician for 10 years, typically charges £100 per house.
He also offers to take the lights down for an extra £50 in the New Year.
Josh says lots of his customers are families who don’t want their dads going up on the roof in case something happens to them, or people who have always wanted to decorate their houses but never managed to get around to it.
He said: “It’s a good side hustle as Courtney and I have been saving for a house for a while – so it’s going towards that.
“But the most special thing is seeing the looks on these kids’ faces when their houses light up for the first time.
“I think a lot of people want to have their houses decorated but are just thinking it’s better to have a qualified professional sorting the electrics.
“So I’m happy to offer that.
“I just want to put a smile on people’s faces over the holiday period.
“It’s all about spreading joy one light at a time.”
Josh has been so touched by the community reaction that he is hoping to find some ways to give back soon.
He said: “We’re looking to do some competitions on social media so some people can get their lights put up for free.
“I’ll admit, my weekends are filling up so fast that I’m having to do some of the bookings before or after work – but I’ll be sure to make time.
“I don’t like to say no when it comes to Christmas.
“I just want to do this for as many people as possible.”
Josh is currently taking bookings on his Facebook page ““.
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