Denis Webbe of APG Security has recently relocated from Manchester and is running intensive 15-day training courses at the Park Hall complex in Charnock Richard.

Denis is now seeking an office in Chorley as he looks to move permanently into the area.

APG have just received Security Industry Authority (SIA) accreditation, allowing them to teach and train potential bodyguards, close protection officers, private investigators and surveillance experts.

Their close protection course is at BTEC level three and equivalent to an A-level in a specialist subject.

Denis, who has looked after foreign royalty, the Beckhams, and countless other high profile celebrities, says that it can be an exciting and rewarding career.

"The benefits are you work for yourself, meet all kinds of people and you are doing an exciting job.

"What you can get out of it depends on what kind of protection you want to get involved in. There's corporate, which I've done a lot of, or celebrity protection, which I prefer, and that involves accompanying clients to parties and events.

"One of my favourite jobs was looking after David Beckham at the launch of the new England kit one year, escorting him and (Soccer AM presenter) Tim Lovejoy, meeting the fans and enjoying the banter."

Denis first started bodyguarding in 2001 after leaving the UK special forces.

Since then he has taken 17-18 courses and worked as an instructor for a firm in Manchester for two years, before deciding to form Advanced Protection Group (APG) Security with business partner Greg Raynor.

"I remember I was working as security for a firm called Sabrewatch and a guy told me that I was too small for close protection," says Denis.

"That really annoyed me, but it kicked me up the bum and went and joined the special forces, did the courses and here I am.

"There is so much you can do on our training, including defensive driving, firearms, first aid - you can get anything out of it that you want.

"Close protection training makes you a more alert and aware person - have you ever heard of a close protection officer being mugged?" laughs Denis. "But it's about thinking not fighting, a good close protection specialist should never have to use their fists."

He also adheres to the rule that if you're good enough, you're old enough.

"There's no age limit, as long as you're fit and can do the job. We're trying to get a lot more women involved, because female clients often request female protection."

APG recruits from all walks of life; emergency services and military, to builders, bricklayers and doormen - even Adlington Co-op!

Denis explains: "I'm always on the lookout in Chorley for potential talent. The other day I was at a supermarket in Adlington and I watched a guy hold the car door open for his girlfriend to put the shopping in. It was just the way he did it that caught my eye, so I had a word with him and he's going to come on our next course."

"There are no guarantees of passing, but those that impress me on the training could be selected for future work."

If you think you've got what it takes, ring Denis on 07928 400915 or visit www.apgprotection.com for more details on the courses.