Soaring car insurance

SIR – Like David Denton (Letters, April 13) I have just received my car insurance – up from £660 to £1,385.

When I queried this, the insurance company said it was down to more expensive replacement parts and higher labour costs. One might expect an annual increase of 10 or 20 per cent, but not something this large.

Is anyone monitoring the insurance companies? They seem to be a law unto themselves. Peter Fisher

Grayshott, Hampshire

SIR – David Denton was at least offered insurance cover for his car. My insurers refused to renew my policy, with no explanation.

I emailed them and accused them of ageism (I am soon to be 90), but of course received no reply.

I have never made a claim and have never been fined for speeding. So much for long-term loyalty. Michael Pearson

Henfield, West Sussex

SIR – I turned 80 last year and my premium rose from £300 to £1,100 with an advanced driver’s policy and no claims. Needless to say, I went elsewhere.

As a long-standing member of the Institute of Advanced Motorists, I was very disappointed with this service. Dave Pantry

Burton-upon-trent, Staffordshire

SIR – We recently renewed our building insurance. We were quoted more than double last year’s premium so we looked at the Russian meerkat comparison site. The policy we now have costs less than last year’s. It is, however, provided by the same company.

No, me neither. George Adams

Brading, Isle of Wight

SIR – This month Aviva reduced comprehensive insurance on my little 11-year-old VW from £196 to £190. Keith Shone

Reading , Berkshire