Blyth-born entrepreneur and former bodyguard Ian Rutherford has published his new autobiography, Mission Accomplished: A Boy from Blyth, now available on Amazon. The book recounts his inspiring rise from unemployment in Newcastle to becoming a trusted bodyguard for former U.S. President George W. Bush and later founding a multimillion-pound security organisation.
The self-published memoir, available internationally, offers a raw and honest account of Rutherford’s journey from humble beginnings on Blyth’s Cowpen Estate – an area once ranked among the most deprived in England – to achieving success through determination, self-belief, and risk-taking.
A powerful story of resilience and ambition, Mission Accomplished traces Rutherford’s transformation from a young man seeking purpose to a globally recognised figure in counter-terrorism and intelligence training. His journey highlights how perseverance and courage can turn even the most challenging start into a life of accomplishment.
“I’ve lived a mad life, and this book’s only a fraction of it. From growing up on a council estate to working with the former president of the United States and working around the world, it’s been a journey.” Said Ian Rutherford.
“This book isn’t about showing off, it’s about showing what’s possible when you keep going, no matter how tough it gets. It shows where I’ve come from and the lessons I’ve learned. There’s enough that happened in my life to fill more books, but for now, I’m proud to share this chapter of my life.”
Mission Accomplished: A Boy from Blyth is available now on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions.
The book takes readers on a compelling journey through the defining moments of Ian’s life, including his early years in the North East, his move to London to pursue a career in security, and the turbulent experiences that tested his resolve.
Among the deeply personal recollections included in the biography is a moving account of the 1989 Kegworth air disaster. Rutherford’s then-girlfriend was due to be on the ill-fated flight, which tragically crashed and claimed 47 lives.
The event profoundly shaped his outlook, instilling a deep appreciation for resilience and purpose that would later guide his life and work.
After early stints in London’s security industry, Rutherford’s career took a defining turn when he joined Walkabout Inns under the mentorship of Michael, the organisation’s chairman. Recognised for his discipline and leadership, Rutherford quickly rose through the ranks, eventually managing security operations across the UK for nearly two decades.
By the mid-1990s, he had established one of London’s largest security companies. Yet, success was not without hardship, including being falsely implicated in a serious firearms case that nearly derailed his life. His eventual vindication became a turning point, reinforcing his determination.
In the years that followed, Rutherford’s work took him to some of the world’s most high-profile environments.
In 1999, he served as a bodyguard during U.S. President George W. Bush’s four-day visit to Monaco, an experience that included moments of high tension, such as being detained at gunpoint and managing security during critical diplomatic movements.
