Born in Farnham, Surrey, UK. Following a divorce from his birth father, his mother Hazel married his step-father, who adopted him and gave him the name Horsfall. A broken family life adversely affected his education, so he left school in 1972 at the age of fifteen and joined the army as a boy soldier.
Despite a long period of isolation and bullying by his peers, he became a full member of the Parachute Regiment in 1974 and served three tours of Northern Ireland. In 1978 he volunteered for SAS selection and passed on his second attempt in March 1979. He went on to qualify as a Paramedic and Sniper.
He was a member of the SAS counter terrorist team that assaulted the Iranian Embassy in London in 1980, helping to rescue the nineteen hostages who had been held for six days.
Robin has had an extraordinary life and has been speaking about it at events both small and large for over 10 years.
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Robin was a fascinating man for you to interview. To think there are young men and boys floundering in towns and cities across the country presently, when men like him are waiting and willing to mentor them beggars belief. What on earth is wrong with those in position of power that can affect these changes?
Am new to this channel, Trevor Coult recommended it, and it's totally fascinating. Have really enjoyed it.
Another Sunday afternoon watching TOPP. Time well spent! Thank you! đź‘Źđź‘Źđź‘Źđź‘Ź
Another superb podcast and a great guest. Well done Chris, nice one.
Rob Horsfall is a highly intelligent and distinguished individual. A soldier who obviously had a strong moral compass and was prepared to stand up for his beliefs. Had he joined as an officer he probably would have gone all the way to the top.
Thanks for this Podcast and your other episodes, they’re enjoyable.
Could I recommend a Para Reg guest?
Hugh Keir, he was a Sgt and sniper and was in the siege of Musa Qala.
He’s featured in the doc “Heroes of Helmand” which is on YT, from around 25:30,
talking of his experience as a sniper.
All the best for your podcast, and looking forward to more episodes.
Slight audio issue at 14:21-22.
Thought you may want to know.