Norwich-based independent insurance broker Hugh J Boswell is set to expand its reach into East Anglia by opening a second office in Bury St Edmunds.

The company said a second branch was needed after seeing an increased demand for its services outside of Norfolk.

As part of the new venture, Joanne Hocking is joining the company as an account executive to support the continued growth of the firm's community broking division.

Peter Foster, managing director, said: 'We have been keen to develop a base in Bury St Edmunds for some time so that we are nearer to our clients in Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex and can be more effectively integrated within their business communities. This is the right time to make the move.'

Mrs Hocking joins the company from the division of insurance intermediary Towergate. She said: 'I am very much looking forward to co-ordinating the growth of Hugh J Boswell's Bury St Edmunds office and the exciting opportunities ahead.'

Hugh J Boswell started business as a Stock Broker and Insurance Broker in a single room near the centre of Norwich in 1906.