A FORMER Royal Marine who lives in Plymouth has revealed how his military skills are now being put to use - protecting tourists from polar bears in the Arctic.
Jack Williams works onboard the ultraluxury yacht Scenic Eclipse II as an armed 'bear guard', ensuring the safety of guests against the threat of polar bears on excursions.
While guests might be keen to get a glimpse of the Arctic's top predator, it is Jack's job to ensure they only do so at a safe distance.
Carrying a gun is only a small part of Jack's job, as he acts as a guide to guests on the 228-capacity yacht for walks through the Arctic tundra, taking them on wilderness hikes of up to 4km. Polar bears are far from the only inhabitants of the icy region, with seals, whales and walruses also a common sight.
Having served for six years in the Royal Marines, with a tour of Afghanistan as part of 45 Commando, it was a final posting to HMS Drake which saw Jack settle in Plymouth.
But the 32-year-old spends half of his year onboard with Scenic in three-month stints, and will start his third season as a bear guard this summer.
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