THE team at Jelf Insurance Brokers in Okehampton are celebrating after receiving the highest rating possible in an independent assessment of their customer service levels.

The coveted 'three star' Investors in Customers (IIC) award recognises exceptional performance in customer service and is reserved for organisations that consistently exceed customer expectations.

The team provides insurance to businesses and individuals in the community.

The Okehampton branch was awarded the rating following the results of the independent survey by IIC, which went to more than 20,000 Jelf clients asking their opinion on their local branch. The Jelf Group as a whole also achieved the 'three star' rating making it the top rated broker in the UK.

Clients praised the Okehampton team for the high levels of customer service, the friendly and knowledgeable staff, their willingness to go the extra mile and the personalised service received. 

One happy customer of the Okehampton branch said: 'We have been very happy with Jelf Insurance. I would recommend the company to others because the staff that we have met or spoken to on the phone are very professional as well as being approachable and friendly.'

Lee Davey, regional managing director for Jelf Insurance Brokers, on behalf of the Okehampton branch said: 'We are delighted to receive this coveted award from Investor in Customers. We believe in putting the client at the centre of everything we do and the team continually strives to provide the best possible service.

'This three star IIC award further acknowledges the value our clients place on the personal service we deliver.'

Investor in Customer's Charlie Williams, director of assessment and consulting, said: 'Again this year, Jelf is IIC's top scoring broker, clearly out in front with its 'three star' rating. The team really does place the customer at its heart. 

'They listen and learn from the feedback each year, and their success in the field of client service is clearly reflected in their strong financial results reported for 2011/12.'