Weblog

It was a record week on the web, with another set of photo specials tempting insurancetimes.co.uk users onto the site in their droves.

At the top was our 2009 awards reception, which was certainly a night to remember or, if some of the pictures are anything to go by, a night that some of our finalists might not remember. But they can take comfort in the knowledge that the photographic evidence is there for all to see.

In the outside world, there was surely a touch of Schadenfreude influencing the popularity of the story on Zurich losing 51,000 customer documents. Come on now, be fair – it’s happened to the government enough times, it could happen to anybody.

Also suffering from bad news was Swinton, with a £770,000 FSA fine. Perhaps it’s because their days are numbered, but there’s no stopping the boys at the FSA handing out hefty fines these days.

And of course what would a week be without its consolidator stories? This week was a big one, with rumours flying that Marsh would be getting out its chequebook for Oval. Oval boss Philip Hodson called the chatter as “absolutely absurd”, Marsh refused to comment and sources indicated that talks had come to an end. Spoilsports …

Bluefin boss Stuart Reid is one man who won’t be tempted by a hefty cheque. The news that he has turned away at least three bids for his major accounts business sneaks into this week’s chart at number five.

Online top five

Photo Special: 2009 Awards Reception

The highlights from the night

Zurich loses 51,000 customer documents

Zurich apologises for data lost

Swinton fined £770,000 by FSA

Swinton apologies for mis-selling PPI and offers customer refunds

Marsh eyes Oval

But deal has stopped, it is believed

Bluefin holds on to ‘integral’ major accounts business

Chief sees off rivals’ bids as division manager moves to Heath Lambert