Insurance expert Peter Lurie has been crowned “the best Individual Income Protection Intermediary” at the national Health Insurance Awards 2009.

Mr Lurie, 34, is the founder of Proactive Medical and Life. Founded two-and-a-half years ago, it specialises in medical cover and all insurances relating to health and wellbeing.

He tells People: “The award was based on a test case study we did, working with the NHS to save doctors and consultants money on their income protection plans. Many doctors and consultants don’t have the right policies in place.”

Mr Lurie says he has witnessed an increase in unemployment cover in the current economic climate. “Income protection has become a big feature for us.” Rhodesia-born Mr Lurie is now based in Borehamwood, Herts.