Monthly Archives: December 2011

Its been too long since I posted on this blog.  But I’ve had  family commitments which, like ironmongery challenges, sometimes require extensive attention to ensure smooth running in future. 

These commitments took me to Kingston upon Thames where I set off one day in search of fluorescent tubes to insert under some kitchen wall cabinets.  I first stopped off at a general ‘catch-all’ type shop which had a few tubes amongst the Christmas paper, toys and snow shovels, but none of the right size.  Next up was Kingston Tools, http://www.kingston-tools.co.uk/ .  

Yes, the name says it all (tools not tubes), so I didn’t find what I was looking for.  Instead I met Karen and Andrew who run a fabulous traditional tool shop.  There was only time for a snapshot on my phone camera but next time I hope to do the shop proud.  Although they don’t stock the  fluorescent tubes I was looking for, their shop has the distinctive feel of an ironmongers that knows exactly what its doing.  Kingston DIY and trades enthusiasts have a fabulous resource for tools and practical advice. Karen and Andrew looked at the spent tube I was carrying and directed me to another shop which they hoped would help.  Sadly, although it stocked the tubes, the staff didn’t offer to get me the size I needed.  I finally headed for John Lewis but had no luck there either.  So, having visited five stores, I returned home empty handed.  Determined to find the tubes, it was surprisingly easy to find them online and place an order.   I’m due for my next visit soon and suspect the task of fitting them may have been left for me to wrestle with. 

What is so baffling is why its so hard to find replacements for an item that must be in almost every home.