Four generations of managing directors are celebrating the centenary of Birmingham's oldest insurance broker.

Ernest R Shaw, founded in 1905, has marked the start of its centenary celebrations with a visit from three former MDs - with a combined total of 72 years' service.

Jack Rudge, Brian Poole and David Johnson joined current boss Peter Miller and staff for a reception at the firm's office in Birmingham city centre.

Mr Rudge, now aged 81, began working at the company in 1962 and became leading shareholder ten years later. He appointed both Mr Poole and Mr Johnson to the firm, joining in 1964 and 1967 respectively.

Following Mr Rudge's retirement in 1984, Mr Poole took over. Mr Johnson then succeeded him in 1992.

Mr Miller, who has been in charge since 1999, said: "It is a rare achievement for a company to reach its 100th birthday, so all staff past and present should be immensely proud of their tremendous contribution towards the success of Ernest R Shaw.

"We are proud to be able to welcome back three former managing directors and show them that the firm is still thriving as we begin our second century, with dedicated staff and a loyal client base.

"One hundred years ago Mr Ernest R Shaw began the firm and I am sure he would be delighted to see the company's centenary celebrations and know that we have maintained our independence."

Ernest R Shaw begins its 101st year in a strong position, as one of few remaining independent insurance brokers in Birmingham. The firm also operates a commercial affinities division in Cheltenham and a major financial services subsidiary handling all aspects of life, pensions, employee benefits and investments in Wolverhampton.

The company moved to its office on Great Charles Street towards the end of last year, having been previously in locations that all overlooked St Philip's Square for the previous 99 years. Mr Johnson said: "We are all delighted to see Ernest R Shaw still going strong."