Grantham Speake, Ovenclean

I've been an Ovenclean franchise owner for over five years now and it's amazingly satisfying. It's certainly hard physical work cleaning ovens, but I've cleaned thousands and my customers are always absolutely over the moon with the results. Invariably they book their next oven clean before I leave, then recommend me to all their friends and neighbours. It's like winning a popularity contest every day!

Of course, a very good living and the flexibility to work the hours I choose both come pretty high up the priority list, but I think the happiness my service brings to my customers every day of my working week is the main reason that I love what I do.

I was previously a studio technician for the BBC and when I was made redundant I took the chance to re-evaluate my life and decided to make a complete change.

I was focused on 'man and a van' operations because I was keen to be based at home, responsible just for myself. I didn't want any ties like staff or premises, and I wanted to be able to work the hours that suited me rather than someone else.

Ultimately, I chose Ovenclean because of its strong track record and the simplicity of the business model, I could see instantly the huge potential it offered. Everyone has an oven, all ovens need cleaning and almost everyone hates the job, so the opportunity was obvious.

Five years later I've never looked back. I make really good money out of my Ovenclean franchise - I earn more than I did working for the BBC - I'm really happy and I've taken back control over my life!