Nelson Mandela’s bodyguard is to give a talk to a Romsey church’s men’s group.

Chris Lubbe is speaking to the New Life Church “Men Only” at Ampfield Golf Club on Thursday (June 26).

As Mandela’s personal bodyguard during his time as President of South Africa, Chris Lubbe met the likes of Desmond Tutu, and Oliver Tambo, attended state functions at Buckingham Palace, the White House and other major world events.

This year, he has been invited to speak at the Commonwealth Conference at the invitation of the Prince of Wales. Growing up in a ghetto in Durban, experiencing first hand the brutality of apartheid was a catalyst for preparing Chris for his involvement in the struggle for democracy.

Chris, who now lives in England, spent long hours with Mandela and became a close personal friend of the president.

He is a qualified performance coach and a Unicef Children’s Champion.

His talk begins at at 7:30 for 8pm. The bar will be open. Entrance for men aged over 16 is free on the evening. Further details from Trevor Clewer, on 01794 515440.