Keira Knightley's plumbers collapse after 'client theft' dispute

12 April 2012

A plumbing firm, accused by a rival of stealing its star clients including Keira Knightley and Hugh Grant, has collapsed owing thousands of pounds to creditors.

Service Corps ceased trading last week while being pursued for debts totalling an estimated £100,000. The firm's bosses also face a £1million legal battle over allegations of industrial espionage.

Pimlico Plumbers' owner Charlie Mullins, 57, who appeared on Channel 4's The Secret Millionaire, accused Service Corps, set up by former Australian news presenter Steve Cosser, of stealing its client database with names such as Daniel Craig, Dame Helen Mirren, Jonathan Ross and Joanna Lumley.

Service Corps was also accused of poaching Pimlico's staff by offering them money to breach their contract. Pimlico has filed a bankruptcy petition against Service Corps, due to be heard on 3 February. At least three other creditors are pursuing Service Corps for debts running into tens of thousands of pounds.

Pimlico is owed £24,000 for legal costs after Service Corps was found in contempt of court during earlier court action surrounding the industrial espionage allegations.

Mr Cosser, the firm's director Colin Hunt and several former employees are named in the lawsuit. The industrial espionage and poaching of staff allegations are due to be heard at the High Court in September.

A lawyer acting for Mr Cosser said he had no comment to make.

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