WORKERS have lost their jobs after an energy supplier collapsed.

Future Energy has ceased trading, with bosses blaming a “difficult” marketplace for its woes.

Bosses say the failure means 19 people have been left without work.

The Newcastle-based business had around 10,000 domestic customers across the North-East and Yorkshire.

However, industry regulator Ofgem last night said supplies and bills will not be affected, revealing it is working to find a new provider.

Officials at Future Energy, which only got its licence in 2015, cited a tough market for its downfall, saying its customer base had ultimately proven too weak to challenge the so-called Big Six suppliers.

David Stroud, chief executive, said: “We have been unable to convert sufficient customers to forward purchase energy at the most competitive rates.

"The marketplace is difficult for challenger suppliers, which lack the financial advantages of larger, national firms.

“We have tried but not succeeded and regret the resulting loss of 19 jobs."

Ofgem confirmed it will choose a new supplier to take on Future Energy’s customers, who will be contacted individually, with Rob Salter-Church, interim senior partner for consumers and competition, urging account holders not to switch provider in the coming days.

He said: “People can continue to rely on their supply - the only thing that will change is they’ll get a new supplier.”

Future Energy was the brainchild of North-East entrepreneur Tim Cantle- Jones.