Sixty Plus win at the 2007 Equity Release awards

The equity release sector celebrated another year of growth at Mortgage Solutions' Equity Release Awards last week.

The third annual event, held at the Millennium Hotel in London's Mayfair, featured celebrity guest speaker Steve Rider, who fronts ITV's Formula One coverage, as well as the Rugby World Cup.

We are delighted to have won two awards.

Best Financial Adviser (less than 10 employees)

Best Financial Adviser Newcomer

Thank you very much to those who voted. Your support is much appreciated.

James Prosser, commercial director of events for Incisive Media's mortgage division, said the industry's tremendous support of the event was an indication of the increasing strength of the sector.

He added: "The demand for these products has never been higher, and the long-anticipated regulation of home reversion plans back in April provided a timely boost.

"There is now a queue of lenders waiting in the wings to launch their offerings and innovate further in this market, which can only be a good thing for the sector in 2008 and beyond," he concluded.

Andrea Rozario starts as first director general of SHIP

Andrea Rozario begins her role as Director General of SHIP (Safe Home Income Plans), the UK equity release industry body representing over 90% of the equity release sector, reports Mortgage Solutions.

As director general, Ms Rozario will be responsible for developing strategy and communications activity with the range of SHIP’s stakeholders and increase understanding about equity release among consumers and relevant organisations.

Sixty Plus comment: We wish Andrea well in her new role and look forward to her enhancing the profile and reputation of the Equity Release sector.