Partridge, has your Corgi person said precicely what the boiler fault is? If so, please tell. What is the make & model of the boiler? You say it doesn't fire up and also that it is quite old. It will almost certainly have a pilot light, can you see if it's 'on'? Has your Corgi person disconnected / disabled the boiler? If he has, do you remember if the pilot light was 'on' before? If he hasn't it would suggest that it is still safe (he is legally obliged to disconnect the boiler if it is dangerous). Did the boiler make any funny noises before stopping working? Could you describe these noises?

Lots of questions I know, but they may help with a diagnosis that will find a cure until your new boiler is fitted.

John