One of Norwich's largest employers, Aviva, has seen a surge in profits despite pressure amid soaring costs and a hit from severe weather claims.

The insurer has seen 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.

Norwich Evening News: Aviva's Norwich ehadquarters in Surrey Street. Picture - Antony KellyAviva's Norwich ehadquarters in Surrey Street. Picture - Antony Kelly (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2010)

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

Last year the firm gave some of its workers a £1,000 handout to help with the cost of living crisis.

The company offered a boost for shareholders with the launch of a £300m share buyback, an increased final dividend payout and upgraded its dividend outlook.

Norwich Evening News: Amanda Blanc, chief executive officer of Aviva - Picture: PAAmanda Blanc, chief executive officer of Aviva - Picture: PA (Image: PA)

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Amanda Blanc, group chief executive of Aviva, said: "We are making excellent progress at Aviva.

"Operating profits and dividends are growing and we have strong trading momentum despite significant market volatility.

"We have radically simplified Aviva, we are financially strong and we are utterly focused on transforming and growing the business."