AN insurance brokers has celebrated its 70th anniversary with a party at the Royal Pavilion.

R T Williams Insurance Brokers Ltd is based at The Old Coach House in Old London Road, Brighton.

It was founded in 1948 when The Brigadier Rex Williams recognised a need, post-war, for providing financial advice and insurance.

This included investment and mortgages for serving and retired members of the forces service personnel.

Turn the clock forward 70 years and it remains a strong business in Patcham

A company spokesman said: “We are a forward-thinking business and continue to go from strength to strength – arranging insurance for many businesses and individuals in the city and beyond.

“We have a refreshed website and a presence on social media and are a voice to be listened to when it comes to insurance guidance.”

Mr Williams’ son, Major Tom Williams, joined the business in 1961 and grandson Christopher Williams joined in 1986.

Company secretary Debbie Gillam has been with R T Williams since leaving school in 1976.

She celebrated 42 years of service on the date of the party and was presented with flowers.

In December 2000 the company merged with another local business – West Hove Insurance Brokers.

Kim Pearce is now co-director along with Christopher Williams.

The business has two arms – one for financial advice and one for general insurance advice (business and personal).

The company is keen to support the local community and in 2016 successfully assisted Patcham Memorial Hall in winning £10,000 towards renovations.

RTW is also a sponsor of Tennis Sussex and has been supporting the Martlets Hospice in Hove for many years by being part of its champion programme.

It is proud to be sponsoring Disco Snail in Churchill Square in the fundraising Martlets Snailspace trail.

The company spokesman said: “Staff at RTW are key to the business success and many have been with the company for ten or more years. Guests at the event were greeted by a trio of musicians.

“It was a wonderful gathering of both clients, staff, representatives from insurers, family and friends.

“Guests were served canapes and drinks and enjoyed tours of the downstairs rooms of the Pavilion, including the stunning recently refurbished saloon.”

The mayor, Councillor Dee Simson, was among the guests.