Penny Black’s Social Diary: Russell Scanlan's record; Insurtech UK's biscuits
Penny Black is back, sharing the tittle-tattle she overheard at insurance industry events, reviewing the quality of buffets at conferences and giving a thumbs up – or down – to the sector's social media posts.
Taking the zip
When you’re an octogenarian and someone suggests you zip-wire across a cricket ground for charity, the sensible response is probably “absolutely not”. Bill Russell, however, is clearly not one for typical responses.
The former president of Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club raised more than £6,200 by zip-wiring across Trent Bridge cricket ground as part of Russell Scanlan’s fundraising efforts for the Trent Bridge Community Trust, the charitable arm of the club.
Russell Scanlan raised a record-breaking £11,301.09 throughout 2025 through various events including their annual charity quiz night, bake sales, and the Robin Hood Half Marathon.
Director Joanne Marriott called it their most impactful fundraising year yet. I need to see what the other fundraisers were like since an octogenarian zip-wiring across a cricket ground was simply described as “one of the standout fundraising efforts”.
Penny’s Lunch Box
Insurtech UK’s end of year pitching session came with branded gingerbread people wearing little Insurtech UK jumpers, and I have to say, this was peak corporate Christmas catering.
The attention to detail is impeccable. These gingerbread people were individually wrapped, perfectly iced, and looking far too cheerful to eat. Though of course, I did eat them. Someone has to quality-test these things.
It’s the kind of branded confectionery that makes you wonder how early the planning started. Five stars for commitment to the festive theme.
Out of context
“Go on – do the hands, Graeme.”
Compliance consultant Branko Bjelobaba encourages Graeme Trudgill, chief executive of the British Insurance Brokers’ Association, to channel a little extra theatre as he references his Manifesto on pages six and seven.
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