Meet Saul – Static Guard Team Leader, Stonehenge

Saul transferred to the team at Venture in 2019 when the company was awarded the security contract for Stonehenge. Here, he reveals all about what it’s like to work at a world-famous monument and why wearing a shirt and trousers on his first day was a big mistake!

How did you first get into working in security?

I used to be a milkman but around the 2000’s I decided I wanted a change. Working in security appeared to offer good money and prospects, plus I have always enjoyed working nights, so I joined a local company.

My first role was in gatehouse security, looking after staff and other visitors coming on site. Having a role that was front of house and involved meeting and greeting people was something I really enjoyed.

I went on to be promoted to recruitment control, where I was looking after 100-150 security officers and working with venues including Twickenham and various football clubs and nightclubs. Then following a stint doing mobile patrols, I began working around Glastonbury Wells managing car park boxes, which was one of the best jobs I’ve ever had. It was so scenic, and I relished the responsibility.

When did you begin working at Stonehenge?

After spending a few years abroad with my father, I came back to England and began doing various security jobs again - which is when the role at Stonehenge came up.

I’d always been interested in archaeology and history, so I couldn’t believe there was an opportunity to work at a site as prestigious as Stonehenge! I thought I had no chance but applied anyway – and I got it!

It wasn’t all smooth sailing though. I thought I was going to be based in the office, so turned up on my first day (in January!) in a cotton shirt and trousers. I had no idea I’d be outside and just how cold it would be! Everyone else was in ski masks and all sorts.

I ended up having to make do with whatever I could find in lost property and when I got home ordered a load of kit for myself off Amazon (as the security company looking after the site at the time didn’t provide anything).

It’s hard to explain what it’s like to work at Stonehenge. When there’s a full moon, it’s just magical. And while the winter months and cold weather can be pretty brutal, the summer really makes it up here. There’s no place like it and I feel so lucky to work there.

When did you join the team at Venture?

I was TUPE’d to Venture when the company took over from the previous security provider in 2019. I didn’t know what to expect, but I can honestly say I’ve never come across a company as good as Venture before. I’m now the longest serving security officer at Stonehenge monument and currently working as a Team Leader.

What is a typical shift like for you?

The shift starts at 7pm with a handover from the previous team, who will update us on any issues we need to be aware of. I’ll then get everyone settled. Throughout the night, all the guards then rotate between guarding the monument, the hub and the visitor centre.

I’m lucky to work with such a brilliant team and it makes a big difference, as we’re working together so closely for 12 hours at a time. Our key responsibility is to protect the monument and make sure people are where they should be.

It all comes down to how you approach people. Often they are unaware of the rules and regulations protecting the site – as it actually has its own legislation. When there are events, such as the summer solstice, it can get crazy with more than 10,000 people coming down! But Venture’s event security team handle all that and there are far more officers on site at those times.

I’m so proud to get to work at one of England’s national monuments. You sometimes forget just how special and unique Stonehenge is until it pops up on TV or in a film!

What’s it like to work for Venture?

Venture is the best security company I’ve ever worked for. They really look after you and that includes providing a substantial layered uniform, which means we are comfortable in all weathers. I’m always paid correctly and on time and they also take steps to look after your health and wellbeing too.

As with any job, the more you put in the more you get out. I feel there is potential for career progression with Venture and hope to keep rising up the ranks.

Finally, something people may not know about you?

One of my favourite things to do is to go kayaking in Cornwall along the coastline. I can’t wait to get back there when restrictions are lifted.