Mark ‘Billy’ Billingham MBE QCB is as tough as they come. Chief Instructor on Channel 4’s SAS: Who Dares Wins, Paratrooper, decorated SAS leader, and a bodyguard to Hollywood superstars, Billy has seen extreme combat and gruelling missions aplenty.
Join him for an extraordinary evening as he shares his incredible, inspirational story of a life where he has sought to push “always a little further”, regardless of whether you succeed first time or not. It’s a mindset that works brilliantly for tackling adventures in the great outdoors.
“I’m a huge advocate for the outdoors,” affirms Billy. “The outdoors is there for everybody, it’s free and it provides so many opportunities. Nature gives you everything, and the best thing ever is going up and down a mountain, putting your legs to real use and breathing in the clean air.”
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There’ll be plenty of hard-earned advice on keeping emotions in check and dealing with mental challenges too. “Adrenaline helps us keep check of our actions when outdoors, it helps you recalibrate your sense and stability,” says Billy. “That’s what I love; that nano hit of the fear factor.”
Billy’s story becomes even more remarkable when you learn about his tough upbringing. He left school at 11 and started running with local gangs in his native Walsall before finding redemption through boxing, joining the Royal Marine cadets and then the Parachute Regiment, eventually rising to the rank of sergeant major in the SAS and undertaking dozens of classified and extremely dangerous missions, from counter terrorism to hostage rescue.
He spent over 20 years serving in warzones across the globe, winning a commendation for bravery and being awarded an MBE by the Queen. After leaving special forces, he embraced the life of a celebrity bodyguard, being entrusted to protect Hollywood A-listers including Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Sir Michael Caine, Tom Cruise and Russell Crowe.
Billy will reveal all, whilst also offering a candid insight into life behind the scenes of the hit show SAS: Who Dares Wins, where he has gained a reputation for excellence, honesty and integrity, as well as supporting his fellow directing staff (DS), but also intimidating and inspiring the contestants who take on the demanding challenges each week.
Educating, entertaining, and enthralling in equal measure, and offering the chance to pose your questions to the man himself, this tour will inspire those wishing to seek a challenge and conquer it – the SAS way.
“I’m looking forward to sharing my stories with the audience and offering an insight into my action-filled life as a Special Forces operator as well as my exciting career on and off camera. I’m also looking forward to meeting fans and taking audience questions on the night!”
The 26-date ‘Always A Little Further’ tour starts on 2nd October at Swindon’s Wyvern Theatre and culminates on 30th November at Glasgow’s Old Fruitmarket.