One of the city's largest employers is deploying security guards to cover its staff's walk to work.

The peculiar decision is said to have been made by Aviva in order to protect staff during the 10 to 15 minute walk to the site and to provide "reassurance and security".

The insurer has security patrolling routes from its car parks to its main city offices in Surrey Street as the days get darker.

Aviva has security patrolling routes from its car parks to its main city officesAviva has security patrolling routes from its car parks to its main city offices (Image: Newsquest)

An email sent out to staff said: "In response to the seasonal changes and the associated safety concerns, we are pleased to announce the launch of the Safer Community Security Officers programme in Norwich this week.

"This initiative aims to enhance our security environment and ensure the safety of our colleagues.

"The deployment of these officers is expected to provide reassurance and security to our team members onsite, in the car parks and in surrounding areas.

An email sent to staff said it is part of Aviva's Safer Community Security Officers programAn email sent to staff said it is part of Aviva's Safer Community Security Officers program (Image: Newsquest)

"Their patrol routes will include Scarles Yard, Surrey Street, the Norwich Island Site perimeter and routes to the Vauxhall Street car park."

Aviva confirmed no additional security has been hired and there's no increased risk around the area.

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An Aviva spokeswoman said: "We have well-established security teams working across our UK offices to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our colleagues, visitors and the security of our sites.

Aviva confirmed no additional security has been hired and there's no increased risk around the areaAviva confirmed no additional security has been hired and there's no increased risk around the area (Image: Newsquest)

"The security we have in and around Aviva's office in Norwich remains the same."

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In March last year the insurer saw a 35pc rise in annual earnings, reporting operating profits of £2.2bn for 2022, up from £1.6bn in 2021.

But it revealed a 5pc drop in earnings at its UK and Ireland general insurance division, to £338m.

Aviva employs around 5,000 people in Norwich, with more than 22,000 working for the company worldwide.

In March last year Aviva saw a 35pc rise in annual earningsIn March last year Aviva saw a 35pc rise in annual earnings (Image: Newsquest)