Gossip from the industry - Industry in fine voice

On the night before our third Management Event, in Weston-super-Mare, Steve Nightingale, Provident's new senior distribution manager, gave a stirring rendition of Strangers in the Night. Having been at the company for only a week, he made an indelible impression and we can confirm that he has a bright future on the insurance karaoke circuit.

John Kitson's voicemail on Wednesday 29 October said that he is having a few days off from "the credit crunch turmoil and stuff" and tells everybody to enjoy their half term. If only the financial services sector could alleviate its difficulties so easily. We hope that you enjoyed your days off, John.

Stephen Wall had a shock when the bailiffs came into Bollington's head office. A source close to him commented: "A very large bloke arrived in the office who refused to leave before he was paid. Stephen had to go the local cash machine. We think it was unpaid parking fines worth over £500."

It was great to catch up with the PR and marketing team at Groupama, which entertained us at the London Bierfest at Old Billingsgate Market. It was especially strange going outside after five hours of fine German drink and dancing to oompah band music to find that it was still light. What a way to spend a Friday afternoon.

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