US campaigner speaks in Manchester

Erin Brockovivh rounded off the 2009 Biba conference with an inspirational speach about her victories as an environmental campaigner.

Brockovick told a packed auditorium at the Manchester Central that she had not come to "stir the pot" by taking up issues against insurers.

Instead, she said the industry should work towards creating and using products to serve humanity and the common good.

Brockovich said the victory in her case against California-based firm Pacific Gas and Electric over water pollution - made famous in the film about her life played by Julia Roberts - cost the company around $1bn in legal fees and compensation.

The American, who was making her first visit to the UK, ended the conference by admitting that she was considering a career in politics and that she hoped to meet US president Barack Obama in the near future.

To read a full interview, go to: Erin Brockovich

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.