This applies to all 8ft tubes, 75w 6ft tubes, 65w 5ft tubes, 40w 4ft tubes and 20w 2ft tubes. This is due to EU energy laws as "they are not very efficient," according to Tony Jones, lighting franchisee for Kwiklite in the Peterborough, Cambridge and Northampton areas.

"This could be very important to many businesses in Peterborough because if the supply runs out and people do not forward plan, it could result in loss of production due to loss of lighting," said Tony.

"There are a few ways around this which could also save money on the companies' electricity usage, so it's not all bad news."

Tony bought into the Kwiklite operation in August 2004, seeing it as an opportunity "to buy a small part of the company."

He had worked for the company for three and a half years before securing the franchise.

It was, basically, replacing lamps and tubes. Contracts included energy-efficiency work such as replacing twin batten lamps with single batten ones with mirror reflectors which results in a saving of half the power for the same light.

Tony's Kwiklite work is simply changing lamps, and there is no call-out charge.

"I simply charge £6 for a 6ft single fluorescent tube – it's £1 per ft," said Tony.

"It's a fairly straightforward and easy operation. Call us and we can be there the same day, always the next day."

He has done work for Peterborough Audi, Hegartys Solicitors, Stoneacre and other major firms in the Peterborough area.

Tony's Kwiklite business is based in Woodston, Peterborough.

For details, call him on 01733 391300 or 0781 1133822.Tel 01733 391300 or e-mail tony.jones@kwiklite.co.uk.