GLOBAL insurance provider Canopius has almost doubled the staff at its Worcester office, which opened in March last year.

The firm moved into new offices on Kings Court Business Park, which were opened by city MP Robin Walker. Beginning with nearly 50 staff, the branch now employs more than 80.

Jane Coppard, head of open market household at Canopius, said: "Our household and accident and health underwriting teams handle an incredible range of products. We cover anything from three bedroom semi detached houses, through very large mansions with a lot of fine art and jewellery, all the way to a personal accident policy for an amateur football club or for someone going to work in Afghanistan for six months. We also offer marine insurance (yachts, canoes, marinas, boat builders) and are even insuring some of the rowing crews currently battling across the waves in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge."

John Eldridge, managing director at Canopius UK Specialty Ltd, added: "It’s a hugely exciting time for the business and our people, and we are delighted to be in our new home."