Martin Bayfield is a former England rugby international, renowned broadcaster, actor, and highly sought-after event host. Standing at an impressive 6’10”, Martin was one of the tallest rugby players of his generation, a formidable presence on the field and a charismatic personality off it. After an exceptional sporting career representing England and the British & Irish Lions, he successfully transitioned into the media and entertainment industries. Today, Martin is a recognised figure on screen and stage, known for his work as a presenter for BT Sport, ITV, and BBC Radio 5 Live, as well as an accomplished after-dinner speaker and charity auctioneer.
Martin’s rugby career began after serving as an officer with the Metropolitan Police and Bedfordshire Police, before committing full-time to professional rugby. As a lock forward, he earned 34 international caps for England between 1991 and 1996, becoming an integral part of the national team’s success in the early 1990s. He was a key contributor to two Five Nations Grand Slam-winning squads in 1992 and 1995, and toured New Zealand in 1993 with the British & Irish Lions, earning three Lions caps. At club level, Martin represented both Northampton Saints and Bedford Blues with distinction. Unfortunately, his playing career was cut short in 1998 due to a serious neck injury, but his leadership, teamwork, and larger-than-life personality made his transition into broadcasting and public speaking seamless.
Since retiring from rugby, Martin has built an impressive career in television and film. As a broadcaster, he has worked as a pitchside reporter and presenter for BT Sport’s Premiership Rugby and European Rugby Union coverage, and has played an important role in ITV’s Rugby World Cup and Six Nations reporting teams. Beyond rugby, Martin has co-presented BBC One’s Crimewatch, covered the NFL and World’s Strongest Man for Channel 5, and contributed as a rugby correspondent for BBC Radio 5 Live. His acting career includes serving as Robbie Coltrane’s body and stunt double for Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films, appearing as Young Hagrid in The Chamber of Secrets, and roles in Wrath of the Titans and StagKnight. In 2018, Martin was a finalist on BBC One’s Celebrity MasterChef, where his culinary creativity and charm impressed both judges and viewers.
Alongside his media career, Martin is a popular after-dinner speaker, event host, and charity auctioneer, known for his quick wit, humour, and captivating storytelling. His talks blend hilarious anecdotes from his time in rugby, policing, and film with valuable lessons in leadership, teamwork, and resilience. Martin is also deeply involved in charitable causes, serving as Honorary President of the Wooden Spoon Society, supporting disadvantaged children and young people, and as Vice President of the London Playing Fields Foundation. With his vast experience, engaging personality, and remarkable life story, Martin Bayfield brings energy and authenticity to every event, making him an unforgettable addition to any occasion.
How to hire Martin Bayfield
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Martin Bayfield for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
Official Feedback from In-Person & Virtual Events
Feedback from In-Person Events:
"Martin was absolutely the lynch pin that held the audience together; he was amusing and engaging and was an absolute treat to listen to." - Nicola, Commercial Projects Manager, MTA
"Dear Martin, Thank you so much for hosting the INCA Awards last night. The feedback from the event has been excellent with members commenting on what an engaging and interesting speaker you were. It was lovely that you joined us for dinner and we were especially pleased at the way you engaged with our members, taking the time to sign autographs and pose for photographs. This was over and above what we expected and added real value to our event. Thank you once again for your time and I hope we have the opportunity to work together again in future." - Alice INCA
- 2022 – Published memoir 'A Very Tall Story' reflecting on his rugby career and personal experiences
- 2018 – Became a finalist on BBC One's Celebrity MasterChef
- 2016 – Co-presented BBC Crimewatch until the show's end
- 2013 – Joined BT Sport as a presenter, pundit, and pitch-side reporter for rugby coverage
- 2011 – Presented coverage for ITV’s Rugby World Cup
- 2007 – Presented coverage for ITV’s Rugby World Cup
- 2005 – Became a rugby correspondent for BBC Radio 5 Live
- 2001-2004 – Co-presented BBC Crimewatch
- 1995 – Key player in England’s Five Nations Grand Slam victory
- 1993 – Played for the British & Irish Lions in New Zealand, earning three caps
- 1992 – Part of England's Five Nations Grand Slam-winning squad
- 1991 – Earned first international rugby cap for England
- 1989 – Transitioned from police force to professional rugby with Bedford Blues and Northampton Saints
