Paragon expansion
Specialist professional indemnity Lloyd's broker Paragon International will expand into the non-marine market.

The broker has appointed Julian Hall to lead the unit as new executive vice president.

GISC appointment
Lloyd's director of worldwide markets Julian James has been appointed to the GISC board.

Winterthur downgrade
AM Best has downgraded the financial strength ratings of Churchill's parent company Winterthur to A (excellent) from A+ (superior).

AM Best said the rating actions reflect the deterioration in risk-adjusted capitalisation, which was greater than expected.

Boncaster signs deal
Cox subsidiary Boncaster has signed a deal to provide motor and household insurance administration services to

Argos Retail Group Financial Services.

Paper debate hots up
Xerox has entered the debate started by Lloyd's chairman Lord Levene. He had said that insurance companies risked extinction if they continued to struggle with a "paper mountain".

Xerox UK Global Services director and general manager Amanda Abernethy said: "Insurers must recognise the obstacles to smooth business operations that paper-based business poses."

Carole Nash centre
Broker Carole Nash is to open a new £500,000 training centre near its Altrincham headquarters.

The motorcycle specialist said the facility could train up to 280 staff and was equipped with eight training rooms, four syndicate rooms, a resource library, communal rest area and a 140-seat conference room.

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