Martin Bayfield

Martin Bayfield honed his leadership skills and resilience as a member of the Metropolitan Police between 1985 and 1989, before transferring to Bedfordshire Police where he balanced his professional duties with a burgeoning rugby career. In 1990, Martin made the leap to a full-time rugby career, marking the start of an incredible journey in the sport.

Standing at an impressive 6’10”, Martin became one of the tallest rugby players of his era, a physical attribute he leveraged to great success as a forward for England. His international rugby career saw him earn 31 caps for England and secure two Five/Six Nations Grand Slams between 1991 and 1996. He was also honoured to represent the British & Irish Lions during their 1993 tour of New Zealand. Although an injury brought his rugby career to an early close in 1998, Martin’s charisma and natural ability to captivate an audience saw him effortlessly transition into a career as a television presenter, event host, and auctioneer.

In 2012, Martin was appointed as a regular presenter on BBC One’s flagship show Crimewatch. His broadcasting portfolio also includes presenting the NFL, World’s Strongest Man, and serving as a rugby correspondent for BBC Radio 5 Live. A familiar face on ITV’s rugby coverage, Martin has worked as a pitch-side reporter and presenter across major tournaments, including the Rugby World Cup and the Six Nations. He also fronted ITV’s live broadcast of the BT World Wheelchair Rugby Challenge in 2015.

For over a decade, Martin has been a leading presenterfor BT Sport (now TNT Sports), covering Premiership Rugby, European Rugby tournaments, and hosting the fan-favourite Rugby Tonight. He currently serves as the lead presenter for Premier Sports, covering the EPCR Championship and Challenge Cup.

Beyond rugby and broadcasting, Martin is a familiar figure in the world of film and television. He famously served as the body and stunt double for the beloved giant Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter franchise and appeared as a cyclops in Wrath of the Titans. He was even offered the role of ‘The Mountain’ in HBO’s Game of Thrones.

Martin’s versatility extends to the kitchen, where he was a finalist on BBC One’s Celebrity MasterChef in 2018. His innovative dishes and culinary expertise earned high praise from judges John Torode and Gregg Wallace.

A passionate advocate for sports and community, Martin is the Vice President of the London Playing Fields Foundation, a charity dedicated to transforming lives through sport and safeguarding playing fields across London.

Whether delivering motivational keynotes, hosting corporate events, or sharing insights from his varied and fascinating career, Martin is an engaging and inspiring speaker who brings warmth, humour, and authority to every stage.

To book after-dinner speaker Martin Bayfield, contact us on enquiries@thespeakersagency.com or call us on +44 (0) 1332 810481