36th Annual Midlands Sporting Luncheon Welcomes England Rugby Legend Jamie George!

Midland Sporting Luncheon Jamie George and Tim Stimpson

Eventmasters are counting down to their favourite festive tradition: the Midlands Sporting Luncheon. Now celebrating its 36th year, this much-loved event returns bigger and better than ever, with England rugby legend Jamie George confirmed as Guest of Honour.

The Jewellery Quarter-based company invites you to join them at the Macdonald Burlington Hotel on Wednesday 9th December 2026 for an afternoon of world-class hospitality, festive fun and rugby brilliance. Joining Jamie George will be former England Rugby international Tim Stimpson as Master of Ceremonies, alongside award-winning comedian Adger Brown to keep the laughter flowing.

A Celebration of Tradition and Growth

Over four decades, the Birmingham-based hospitality company has grown from an ambitious venture into one of the UK’s leading corporate hospitality providers, and the Midlands Sporting Luncheon has grown right alongside it.

Now in its 36th year, the Midlands Sporting Luncheon (MSL) boasts a rich and cherished history. Founded by Greville Edwards, a stalwart of Birmingham Moseley Rugby Club, it is still affectionately known as “Greville’s do” in his honour following his passing in 2012.

“Greville was a stickler for punctuality, so timings for the event are very precise in his honour: ‘Arrive at midday for a 12.30pm start’,” said Mark Sheasby of Eventmasters.

What began as a modest festive gathering has evolved into one of the region’s most anticipated annual events, drawing sporting legends, business leaders and loyal supporters year after year.

Guest of Honour: Jamie George

Legendary England hooker Jamie George has amassed over 100 caps, featuring in Six Nations title-winning campaigns and three Rugby World Cups. His performances have also earned him call-ups to three British & Irish Lions tours in 2017, 2021 and 2025, further cementing his status as one of the leading forwards of his generation.

At club level, Jamie George joined Saracens as a teenager, rising through the ranks to become one of the most influential figures in the club’s history. A leader on and off the pitch, George has played a central role in six Premiership and three European triumphs.

“Jamie George has had a phenomenal rugby career, and I’m looking forward to finding out what makes him tick, and hopefully how he makes us laugh too,” said Tim Stimpson, former England international and Master of Ceremonies at the Midlands Sporting Luncheon.

Guests will have the opportunity to hear about his experiences playing at the highest level of international and club rugby.

“The 36th Midlands Sporting Luncheon will be another great event. I’m delighted that Jamie is joining us this year. An incredible career with Saracens, England and the Lions. I can’t wait to hear the stories he will have to tell. Stimmo, our resident MC, has become very accomplished. With him being a rugby man, there should be great insight and lots of fun,” said Mark Sheasby.

Supporting a Great Cause

Last Year’s Midlands Sporting Luncheon Raised £6,000.00 for Prostate Cancer

As always, the Midlands Sporting Luncheon proudly raises funds for Prostate Cancer UK through a mix of live and silent auctions and the ever-popular Heads & Tails game.

Last year’s event raised an incredible £10,000 for charitable causes, including the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. This year, Eventmasters hopes to surpass that total, making the 36th annual luncheon the most successful fundraiser yet.

“This kind of event ticks all the boxes: a fun crowd and rugby chat with some excellent food and wine, all in support of one of the best causes I can imagine, Prostate Cancer UK,” said Tim Stimpson.

Event Highlights

Guest of Honour: Jamie George (England Rugby, Saracens and The British & Irish Lions)
MC: Tim Stimpson (England and British & Irish Lions)
Comedy: Adger Brown
Superb four-course festive lunch
Charity auctions and fundraising for Prostate Cancer UK
Perfect for corporate Christmas parties or client entertainment
Private tables available for 8, 10 or 12 guests