England rugby legend to host World Demolition Awards
29 October 2024
D&Ri is proud to announce that english rugby legend and broadcaster Martin Bayfield is to host this year’s World Demolition Awards, which will take place next week at the World Demolition Summit in Sweden.
Martin is a former British Lion and England International rugby player, television presenter and broadcaster.
At 6’10” Martin was one of the tallest rugby players of his generation, which he used to his full advantage as one of England’s forwards.
He enjoyed a successful international career, winning 31 England caps and two 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 enabled him to easily transition into TV Presenting and speaking, hosting and auctioneering at corporate events.
While most know him for his sporting achievements, Martin is also well known for serving as the body and stunt double of the much-loved giant Rubeus Hagrid, played by Robbie Coltrane, in the Harry Potter franchise created by JK Rowling.
In his broadcasting career, Martin has been a regular presenter on BBC’s long-running show Crimewatch, has presented the NFL and World’s Strongest Man, and has also worked as a rugby correspondent on BBC Radio 5 Live.
He has been one of the longest running Live Broadcast Presenters for BT Sport (now TNT Sports) across all Premiership Rugby and European Rugby Union tournaments, and has presented popular shows such as Rugby Tonight for the channel.
Between 1985 and 1989 Martin served with the Metropolitan Police before transferring to Bedfordshire Police where he juggled playing rugby and serving in the forces. He made the transition into his full time rugby career in 1990.