Newcastle-based insurance broker and financial services specialist Lycetts has toasted 60 years of industry success by hosting a gala ball for its 155-strong staff.
Colleagues from across the country came together for a diamond anniversary-themed party at the Crowne Plaza in Newcastle on October 14, where they enjoyed a three-course meal and entertainment from North East band Hip Operation.
Lycetts was established in Newcastle in October 1961 as Wright Deen Lycett Limited and over the past six decades has grown to become one of the UK’s leading independently-operated insurance brokers.
Still headquartered at Milburn House, Newcastle, the company now operates from 16 regional offices, advising clients nationwide on insurance matters from farm and estate and household to commercial and bloodstock insurance, as well as offering bespoke financial services.
Charles Foster, Chief Executive of Lycetts, said: “Sixty years in business is a remarkable achievement and is testament to the dedicated work of our staff and long-standing relationships that have been fostered and nurtured for more than half a century.
“While we are exceedingly proud of the way the company has moved with the times, adapted, and grown over the years, we are equally proud of our heritage.
“Maintaining high standards of personal service, creating innovative products, and employing staff who can readily empathise with clients sits at the core of our business and these fundamental values have ensured Lycetts’ sustained success and close client relationships through several generations.
“We hope and look forward to seeing the company continue to thrive over the next 60 years and beyond.”
As part of the 60-year anniversary celebrations, Lycetts is giving away a pair of diamond earrings in a special free prize draw, with the lucky winner to be announced in early November.
Other celebratory activities include the commissioning of a short film and a charity of the month initiative, which saw Lycetts support causes close to the hearts of their staff by promoting the good work they do in the community.
Each charity was nominated by a member of staff and includes the Percy Hedley Foundation, CHUMS, Racing Welfare, The Woodhorn Charitable Trust, RSABI, Coats for Kids, The Country Food Trust and Learning for Life.
Charles added: “Giving back is at the heart of Lycetts’ culture and ethos and we are committed to supporting the charitable causes that are important to both our staff and our clients.
“All of our available profits go to the Allchurches Trust Limited, which in turn invests them back into the community, with more than £50 million given to projects across the UK over the past five years.
“As well as shining a spotlight on fantastic and deserving organisations for our Charity of the Month scheme for 2021, Lycetts staff are also supported in their charity work through our Staff Fund Matching scheme. In addition, each employee is given £125 every year to donate to any registered charity of their choice.
“Charitable giving will continue to be an integral part of our business model and we are proud of the philanthropic work making a difference to the communities we live in and work with.”
Alan Sinclair, Christopher Cox, Gerard Salvin, Edmund Sword at Lycetts’ 60th anniversary ball in Newcastle. Credit Mike Smith
Will Kendrick, Peter Hull, Luigi Picanza, Barbara Adnitt, Richard Beechener, Toby Baker, Callum Holland. Credit Mike Smith
Charles Foster, CEO of Lycetts. Credit Mike Smith
Bec Stockbridge, Lisa Wilson, Charlie Douglas at Lycetts’ 60th anniversary ball in Newcastle. Credit Mike Smith
Geordie Ogilvy-Wedderburn, William McCarter, William Barne at Lycetts’ 60th anniversary ball. Credit Mike Smith