Insurers have been accused of many things over the years, but ruining Christmas has not been one of them, until now.

The Halesowen and Rowley Regis Rotary Club was given an early dose of festive cheer when its insurer declared that Santa, despite the collision-avoiding properties of his beard, was at unacceptable risk while cruising in his Land Rover-pulled sleigh at 5mph.

Either the joyriding Santa must belt up, or face a £200 hike in his premium – much to the chagrin of club president, Barry Wheeler.

“[Santa] would be more likely to injure himself getting in and out of the sleigh than actually falling out of it.”

Backchat suggests that would depend on how many sherries he’s guzzled.

Santa has now been issued with a safety harness. “It somewhat takes the magic out of it,” added Wheeler, “but at least we can carry on.”

The ABI insisted that the issue was about saving Santa from would-be humbug inflictors, hell-bent on playing chicken with reindeer.

Backchat wonders why Santa hasn’t considered delivering a sack-full of insurance policies this year instead – including his own.

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.

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