Biography

Martin Bayfield is a presenter, reporter and former England rugby player.

At 6’10″ Martin was one of the tallest players in rugby, which he used to full advantage as one of England’s forwards. He enjoyed a successful international career, winning 31 England caps and 2 Five/Six Nations Grand Slams from 1991 to 1996, as well as being selected to represent the British & Irish Lions in New Zealand in 1993.

Injury prematurely ended Martin’s rugby career in 1998, but his charismatic personality and natural stage presence helped him to transition in to the corporate events and functions sector. Martin is a popular after-dinner speaker, MC and auctioneer, with a reputation of exceptionally funny speeches. He is experienced at a range of corporate events including gala and sports dinners, award ceremonies, company conferences and away-days.

Martin also served as Rubeus Hagrid’s body and stunt double in the Harry Potter franchise, as well as appearing as a cyclops in the film Wrath of the Titans.

Since his retirement from rugby, Martin has also moved into broadcasting. He was involved in the coverage of the Rugby World Cup 2011 for ITV, and in March 2012, Martin was confirmed as a regular presenter on BBC1’s long-running show Crimewatch.

Martin is a key presenter of BT Sport’s rugby coverage, contributing as a presenter, pitchside reporter and pundit as well as being involved in popular shows such as Rugby Tonight for the channel.

In 2015, Martin was announced as part of ITV’s broadcast team for the Rugby World Cup hosted in England. Martin was also the main presenter for the BT World Wheelchair Rugby Challenge 2015 which was broadcast live on ITV4.

During the Rugby World Cup 2015, Martin was one of the rugby ambassadors for the Official Logistics Partner DHL, alongside his ambassadorial role for insurance company QBE.

Martin has been confirmed as part of the ITV team for this year’s RBS 6 Nations tournament. Martin will combine his presenting duties with his role as England reporter throughout the tournament.

Martin splits his time between London and Northampton.

 

SUMMARY      

  • Former England International and British Lion
  • Ex-policeman, having served with the Metropolitan and Bedfordshire Police
  • Highly in demand after-dinner speaker and host
  • BBC 1’s Crimewatch Presenter
  • BT Sport rugby presenter and reporter
  • Host of ITV’s Rugby World Cup & Six Nations coverage
  • BBC Radio 5Live Rugby correspondent
  • QBE & DHL’s Rugby Ambassador in 2015
  • Actor and Harry Potter body double
  • Over 47,000 Twitter followers to date