Our team

Mike Blanshard - Senior Agent
As the Senior Agent I am here to help with all your business and personal insurances. I joined the branch in June 2007 after a varied career in agriculture. I am from a farming family background and have worked in the potato and arable sectors and the milk and livestock sectors in a number of senior roles gaining a wealth of agricultural experience to bring to this role. Please feel free to call to discuss your insurance needs.
Becky Hall BA(HONS) Dip C II - Agent
I have been with NFU & NFU Mutual since March 2002. As an agent of the business I am qualified for all lines of insurance but I specialise in commercial insurance, especially farming. I am responsible for the financial and regulatory obligations of the agency. In connection with the NFU, I am the County Durham contact for our Rural Police Liason Group and attend quarterly meetings with the Durham Police Deputy Chief Constable.
Sue Bloxsome - Office Manager
I have worked in the Darlington branch since June 2006. I currently support Mike and Becky in the running of the office and am happy to help with your accounts or general queries. I also coordinate the financial service activity for the agency. Please contact me to arrange an appointment to see our Financial Consultant.
Karen Hall - Claims Manager
I have worked in the Darlington branch since September 2002. My main roll is handling all your claims both new and existing. I am also happy to deal with any changes to your existing policies and new quotes for Car, Commercial Vehicle, Home and Lifestyle and Horse and Rider.
Helen Tomlinson
Currently on Maternity leave until March 2012
Tracey Elwell - Customer Service Advisor
I have worked here in the Darlington office since September 1998. I am happy to help you with any insurance quotations you would like for your Car, Light Goods Vehicle, Commercial Vehicle, Motorcycle, Tractor, Travel, Home and Contents, Personal Accident, Caravan or Horse and Pony insurance. I am also happy to help you with any insurance alterations you would like to make to an existing insurance policy.
Janet Matthew - Customer Service Administrator
I have worked here since October 2009 and assist Mike and Becky with their administration. I also oversee the distribution of all renewals and can take payments for your new and existing policies. I am also happy to help you with any insurance alterations you would like to make to an existing policy.
Sam Dunphy - Internal Sales Executive
I joined the Darlington Agency in November 2009 having previously worked in the insurance and banking industries. My role involves providing quotes for motor, house and small business insurance. I help to promote NFU Mutual products and services to new and existing clients. I am also your point of contact for Risk Management Services.
Linda Cronin - Sales Executive
Having joined the company in January 2011, I am the latest addition to the Darlington team. I am part of the sales team and am able to assist you in all motor, personal and commercial products providing new business quotations. I can help you over the telephone or come to see your business to discuss your commercial needs. I have worked in the insurance industry for over 9 years.
Helen Bonnick - Sales Consultant
Providing technical support to the agency in their sales and servicing activity. NFU Mutual Sales Consultants are employed by NFU Mutual.
Les Pyle - Financial Consultant
Les has worked in the Financial Services Industry for over 25 years. He joined NFU Mutual in 2002 and he can advise on inheritance tax planning, investments, protection products and pensions. He can be contacted through our office or on 07967 698522.
Kirsty Hallam - Risk Management Services Sales Executive
Advisor in the provision of Risk Management Services, from COSHH assessments, Risk Assessments and Safety Policies to Fire Risk Assessments to assist your business manage risk and comply with current legislation. Services range from an initial consultation to a full Risk Management report to cover every aspect of your business. Risk Management Services are available to all without obligation - please contact the office for further details.