Two independent insurance brokers in Bury St Edmunds have each achieved Chartered Insurance Broker Status.

Hugh J Boswell Insurance Brokers and Lark (Group) Ltd join the exclusive ranks of firms to have been recognised by the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) as meeting its rigorous criteria for professionalism and capability.

A Chartered Insurance Broker is required to demonstrate its commitment to the CII’s Code of Ethics and to make a public declaration that the advice it gives is of the highest quality, based solely on the researched needs of the customer and provided by someone working within their level of competency.

Peter Foster, managing director of Hugh J Boswell, which is this year celebrating its 110th year of trading, said: “Achieving chartered status is a proud milestone for us and it demonstrates the hard work and commitment we have provided our customers, partners and employees over the years.

“Professional development isn’t something we pay lip service to, but strive to embed within our business’ culture from top to bottom.”

Stephen Lark, managing director of Lark, added: “This is a highly prestigious award with demanding qualification criteria. It signifies to our clients and to the rest of the insurance market that we are very serious in our pursuit of the highest standards. It confirms that we have a commitment throughout the business to professional qualifications and it demonstrates our adherence to ethical good practice.

“The people in our business have really bought into the concept of professionalism, and have demonstrated this by progressing in their insurance exams.”