A NORTH East insurance broker has bolstered its rural division by appointing an experienced farm manager as a rural account executive.

Lycetts has appointed Charles Orpwood, who will be advising their Northern clients on rural insurance matters, including estates, farm and household.

Before joining Lycetts, Charles worked as a letting manager at London-based estate agents Dexters, where he gained ARLA letting and property management qualifications.

Two years ago, Charles returned to his family's sheep, beef and arable enterprise in Northumberland, where he further honed his skills in rural management.

“Lycetts and its people have a deep connection with the countryside through the services it provides and its support of rural events and awards, which resonated with me, given my agricultural background,” said Charles.

“With the number of farms and estates diversifying ever-increasing, driven by new technology, communication and a change in demographic, farming now involves a more diverse group of people and business opportunities, so managing risk and filling gaps in knowledge is imperative.

“Having grown up on a farm and handled the daily operations of a significant enterprise for a number of years now, I have gained great insight and first-hand experience of the challenges farmers face, holding me in good stead to provide the expertise to advise on the most appropriate actions and insurance options.”

Though Charles will primarily be tasked with supporting the company’s rural division, he will also advise on commercial policies, drawing on his previous experience as a lettings agent.