The Perfect Bodyguard in London
What makes the Perfect Bodyguard in London? Most people associate the word ‘bodyguard’ with the giant man mountain, often seen babysitting celebrities in the States. Or Kevin Costner style gun toting Hollywood heart throbs. The reality is, both types of these bodyguards fit a role, just not in London.
This months guest blog is written by a former British Special Forces soldier who works for Westminster Security and wishes to remain anonymous. He has vast experience providing close protection around the world through his time in the military, with over 15 years experience in the private sector, predominantly operating as an individual close protection bodyguard in London.
At Westminster Security, when a new client calls us to enquire about our close protection services in London, they often ask; how big is he? How tall is he? Is he a good fighter? I have to kindly explain to them that none of these factors come into consideration when it comes to placing an operative to protect them. What does matter is manners, intelligence, observation skills, forward planning, people skills, etiquette and local knowledge. Not fast cars, muscles and guns!
Bodyguards in London are now commonly referred to as ‘Close Protection Operatives’ or CPOs. The title projects an image of professionalism, whereas ‘Bodyguard’ sounds a lot more intimidating and some might say thuggish.
Types of Bodyguard
The giant sized Man Mountain – As mentioned preciously, this type of bodyguard is often seen gracing the glossy tabloid magazine pages, pictured manhandling fans or carrying designer shopping bags for their tiny celebrity principals, who are dwarfed in their shadows. Their waistlines are bigger than their egos, and they’re as effective as solar powered torches. However, record labels and celebs love them as they feel safe hiding behind them, and they grab the headlines.Muscle bound meat heads – The type of bodyguard who has waited 10 years to get his SIA licence due to the murder charge on his record. An old school doorman with more scars and tattoos than teeth, a man who could kill you with his breath alone. Fortunately this type of bodyguard normally ply their trade on the doors at the local pub, wooing punters with their CP badge of honour, and tales of heroics. Seldom do you see them on the catwalks of Knightsbridge and Chelsea, they certainly look lost at sea during afternoon tea at The Ritz.The car salesman – Fresh off his close protection course, armed with his quick tongue and spikey hair, ill-fitting supermarket suit, shiny faux leather shoes, pink shirt, brash tie and sunglasses. He knows everything and is better than every other bodyguard and he’s keen, ready and eager to show you – by beating you in an arm wrestle over lunch. Like a rabbit in the headlights on sight of their first street beggar, but tells his Facebook friends he fought off an armed gang. Luckily these newbies get found out quick, and end up doing nights on a building site for the rest of their glittering security careers.The grey man – He is your perfect bodyguard in London, he is neither a man mountain, meat head nor car salesman. He is professional, he blends in, keeps his mouth closed and ears open. He speaks when spoken to and is polite to everyone. He fits in at a Michelin star restaurant, just as well as in a busy nightclub. He has good local knowledge and connections, he is mature with a good sense of humour. He is thinking 10 steps ahead, and can take control of any situation with ease. He is effective and he is respected for his results, not his stories. He is versatile, adaptable and proactive. He has a military or police background in close protection, he is who you want as your bodyguard in London.
Westminster Security in London
At Westminster Security, we provide highly sought after, professional close protection operatives. All of our CPO’s have backgrounds in the British Military and Police specialist protection units. We believe that their training and experience is priceless, which helps them and us stand out above other security companies for all the right reasons.
We only employ the most experienced and qualified close protection operatives with proven exemplary backgrounds. They are all rigorously financially and security vetted for your peace of mind. They are all trained in advanced driving, first aid, conflict resolution and self-defence.
We provide a complete, premier protection service. Including but not limited to; security chauffeured luxury vehicles, residential security and concierge services. Our clients include royalty, celebrities, company CEOs and high-net-worth families. We are well practiced in providing a high end service for the fast paced demanding lifestyles of our clients. We operate with complete discretion and efficiency.
Contact Westminster Security today to enquire about our Close Protection Bodyguard services in London.
Call us on: 0208 123 3323 or 0755 4000 300
Close Protection FAQ’s
Do you have female bodyguards in London?
- Yes, we can provide a wide range of female bodyguards to suit all your needs. We have female bodyguards who are also trained in childcare, and others who are multilingual. Please contact us with your individual requirements and we will do our utmost to assist you.
Can my bodyguard also double as my driver?
- Yes, all of our close protection operatives are trained in advanced defensive driving. All of whom have vast experience chauffeuring our ‘Best of British’ fleet, which includes; Rolls Royce, Bentley, Jaguar and Range Rover vehicles.
I need to hire bodyguards in London, what is the procedure?
- Once we receive your call or email we will discuss your individual requirements and conduct an initial threat and risk assessment to figure out the best systems to put in place to mitigate the threats and risks posed to you. We will then assign a bodyguard or close protection team for your personal protection. Please contact us for further information.
