Sore heads, but BIBA is a hit

Several senior broker execs had to settle for football updates via their Blackberries as they were entertained by the likes of Allianz (missing the football – that is dedication to work!). However, one editor managed to secure a table with a seat facing a big screen courtesy of Towergate. Highlights of the night included Stuart Reid celebrating rather wildly and then being told to sit down when one of Chelsea’s ‘goals’ was disallowed. The talk at the table promptly turned to who was going to be able to get tickets for the final – we are sure all brokers are poring over their books trying to find some Russian connections!

The conference is buzzing and despite the hangovers, so far it has been a great success with Zurich the only notable absentees (although we are assured they have plenty of people ‘on the ground’). Although I still haven’t had a chance to see all the stands yet – there are so many – Norwich Union’s is the best I’ve seen where you can line-up to change a tyre of a FI race car. Igal Mayer claims he did it in 25 seconds. Meanwhile, John Kitson says he’s had the best week of his life after signing up Aviva to sponsor Norwich City – he is a huge fan! Kitson told PB Week: “I will keep my seat in the rowdy end rather than the corporate box. I am a pie man, not a prawn man.” Delia Smith has already appeared on the front cover of the BIBA Daily in her Aviva kit– suggesting that losing such a historic name is perhaps not such a bad thing after all when you can sponsor the local football team! Adding 1 has had some sultry dancers – though two senior brokers confessed to not knowing what they actually do!

So what’s happening tonight, I hear you ask? Well Groupama have kindly invited us to Stirling Castle – we will tell you about how it goes next week!

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