Arthur Farrow

One of Bluefin's Executive Directors tells us why motorcycles get his engine running

What attracted you to insurance?
The swashbuckling lifestyle, the call of the road, the smell of a good deal…who knows. More importantly, the people I meet and the job satisfaction keep me in insurance.

Describe your average working day
I’m a late riser, but my mobile is on 24/7, so I take client calls as they commute and this gets me going. I fire off a few emails, leap on a motorcycle and zip to the office or to visit clients.

My days consist of solid insurance work, negotiating bespoke deals, developing relationships and getting the cover right – and perhaps a little mentoring, which I enjoy. I’m usually out of the office by 7.30pm, go home and fiddle with the computer until midnight – interspersed with domestic and motorcycle maintenance. My clients respect my availability, but know to call any time when the chips are down…

Why did you start collecting motorcycles?
To me, the term ‘collector’ implies drawers full of dusty items; my bikes are living art and I love variety – from modern superbikes through to vintage gentlemen’s mounts. They consume little space, don’t break down and, well, it was cheaper than multiple girlfriends! Barring a 1922 Scott and a 1936 Douglas in restoration they are all taxed and MOT’d, so I can ride them whenever I get the urge. I have a great social life with friends around the world, and the networking opportunities have been brilliant!

Which is your favorite motorcycle in your collection?
It’s not the most valuable, prettiest, fastest or the one with the most history. They say travel broadens the mind, so the motorcycle I respect most is the one that has taken me more than 75,000 miles through Canada, Australia, New Zealand and every country in Europe – a Vincent HRD Rapide. It is 60 years old, but a beautiful bike and British at its best.

You have looked after some of your clients for more than 25 years – do you have to look after your bikes with as much care and attention?
Good lord yes! There are parallels of course: poorly researched insurance bites back as easily as a chain jumping a sprocket on a motorcycle, so I listen to clients and what my machines communicate in equal measure. I don’t do breakdowns, it’s all about trust – my clients trust me and I trust my motorcycles.

The CV

1969 – 1972: Norwich Union, Fire Department
1972 – 2009: Helm Group UK plc, became Chairman
2009 – present: Helm Group UK plc became part of Bluefin, Executive Director