?Despite the mouthful, Backchat was delighted to hear that Oval had become the 2007 Cricket World Spirit Of Commerce 20/20 champions.

Though its case was helped somewhat by the involvement of the broker’s chief executive – and former Yorkshire county cricketer – Phillip Hodson, he was mysteriously absent from the final.

Rumours that, while they were distracted, Hodson attempted to buy opponents nPower proved unfounded.

However, in the spirit of its achievements (that is, Oval’s 20 acquisitions) Backchat thinks the trophy should be renamed the 2007 Cricket World Spirit Of Commerce 20/20/20 championship.

Curiously, Mr Hodson boasts a first-class batting average of (ho hum) 20.81.

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.