Howden-owned  Aston Lark has acquired a Plymouth-based marine insurance broker to further expand its capabilities in the specialty sector.

Curtis Marine will become part of Howden’s marine practice trading under the Haven Knox-Johnston name. The business will join Euromarine, A-Plan Marine and Howden Fastnet to collectively form part of Haven Knox-Johnston.

Curtis Marine has been providing marine insurance solutions to the South West region for the last 40 years. It offers cover for a wide variety of vessel types, from dinghies to luxury motorboats, and for marine businesses from sole traders to marinas.

The acquisition develops Haven Knox-Johnston’s national presence, with an established local team based in Plymouth.

Steve Hook, head of marine practice, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Sally, Aidan and the entire Curtis Marine team to the Howden Marine Practice and look forward to working closely together to provide the best marine insurance solutions to the marine industry and boatowners in Plymouth and the local area. Our aim is to create the UK’s most client-focused marine insurance proposition and deliver a wide choice of products combined with expert advice and excellent value for money to our clients. Acquisitions like Curtis Marine are key to helping us achieve this objective.”

Aidan Mepsted, director at Curtis Marine, added: “This is a new and exciting chapter and a great fit for Curtis Marine. Our business success has been made possible due to the hard work of our excellent staff, and support from our loyal customers and insurance partners. We look forward to joining the Howden Marine Practice and developing the business as it continues to expand in the marine insurance sector.”

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