Chaucer has made a 'positive start' to 2006, with premium income of £235m written to the end of April, chairman Martin Gilbert told the company's AGM.
Gilbert said this represented 53% of the combined planned income for Syndicates 1084 and 1176 for the full year, an increase of 17% compared to the same stage of 2005.
The company continues to forecast a premium rate increase of approximately 9% in 2006 across its non-motor divisions, while UK motor rates are seen remaining stable.
It said premium rates within its property and marine divisions have increased strongly in line with forecasts and it has significantly reduced its hurricane exposures in the United States.
CEO Ewen Gilmour said: "With a good start to the year behind us, I am confident of our sustained ability to deliver excellent future returns to shareholders."
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.
