England Rugby Star Jamie George to Headline Midlands Sporting Luncheon 2026

Former England captain and British & Irish Lions star Jamie George has been confirmed as the Guest of Honour for Eventmasters’ 36th Annual Midlands Sporting Luncheon, taking place in Birmingham this December.

The Saracens hooker, one of the most recognisable figures in English rugby, will take centre stage at the Macdonald Burlington Hotel on Wednesday 9th December 2026, sharing stories and experiences from his outstanding international and club career.

George will be joined by former England and British & Irish Lions international Tim Stimpson, who returns as Master of Ceremonies, alongside renowned comedian Aaron James for an afternoon of rugby, entertainment and festive hospitality.

Jamie George Joins an Illustrious List of Rugby Legends

A former England captain, Six Nations Grand Slam winner and multiple Premiership and European champion with Saracens, Jamie George has enjoyed an exceptional career at the highest level of the sport.

Having earned more than 100 England caps, represented the British & Irish Lions on three tours and helped Saracens claim six Premiership titles and three European Champions Cups, George has established himself as one of the most successful English players of his generation.

The 35-year-old announced earlier this year that he would retire from professional rugby in 2027, making his appearance at the Midlands Sporting Luncheon particularly significant as he approaches the conclusion of his playing career.

Guests will have the opportunity to hear George reflect on his experiences captaining England, competing in Rugby World Cups and representing the Lions, alongside memorable moments from his years at Saracens.

His appearance continues the luncheon’s tradition of welcoming some of rugby’s biggest names, with previous Guests of Honour including Martin Johnson, Brian O’Driscoll, Alun Wyn Jones, Jason Robinson, Mike Tindall and Dan Cole, who headlined the 2025 event.

Tim Stimpson and Aaron James Complete the Line-Up

Former England and Leicester Tigers star Tim Stimpson will once again oversee proceedings as Master of Ceremonies, bringing his experience of international rugby to the stage.

Stimpson, who represented the British & Irish Lions during their famous 1997 tour of South Africa, will interview George about his career, offering guests an opportunity to hear behind-the-scenes stories from some of rugby’s biggest occasions.

Comedian Aaron James will also provide entertainment during the afternoon. With almost 30 years of experience, James has performed at major sporting events across the world, including international rugby fixtures at Twickenham, high-profile boxing events in Las Vegas and major football tournaments.

The combination of rugby insight, interviews and comedy has become a defining feature of the Midlands Sporting Luncheon throughout its history.

Celebrating 36 Years of the Midlands Sporting Luncheon

First established by Greville Edwards, a prominent figure at Moseley Rugby Club, the Midlands Sporting Luncheon has developed into one of Birmingham’s longest-running festive sporting occasions.

Originally known as “Greville’s do”, the event has grown considerably over the decades, regularly attracting leading rugby personalities and businesses from across the Midlands.

The 36th edition will take place in the Horton Suite at the Macdonald Burlington Hotel, conveniently located opposite Birmingham New Street Station.

Guests will enjoy a four-course Christmas luncheon, alongside sporting interviews, comedy entertainment and opportunities to celebrate the festive season with colleagues, clients and fellow rugby supporters.

Continuing to Support Prostate Cancer UK

Charitable fundraising remains an important part of the annual event, with Prostate Cancer UK once again benefiting from activities throughout the afternoon.

The 2025 Midlands Sporting Luncheon raised £10,000 for charitable causes, including £6,000 for Prostate Cancer UK and £4,000 for the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.

This December’s luncheon will continue that tradition, featuring the popular Heads or Tails game alongside live and silent auctions to raise valuable funds.

With Jamie George now confirmed as Guest of Honour, the 36th Annual Midlands Sporting Luncheon promises another memorable afternoon celebrating rugby, entertainment and charitable fundraising.

The event takes place on Wednesday 9th December 2026, with limited hospitality availability remaining.

Guests wishing to attend can explore Eventmasters’ Midlands Sporting Luncheon hospitality packages and enquire about availability.

Midlands Sporting Luncheon 2026 FAQs

Who is the Guest of Honour at the 2026 Midlands Sporting Luncheon?

Former England captain and British & Irish Lions star Jamie George is the Guest of Honour for the 36th Annual Midlands Sporting Luncheon. He will discuss his career with Master of Ceremonies Tim Stimpson.

When and where is the Midlands Sporting Luncheon 2026?

The 36th Annual Midlands Sporting Luncheon takes place on Wednesday 9th December 2026 at the Macdonald Burlington Hotel in Birmingham City Centre, opposite Birmingham New Street Station.

Who else will appear at the Midlands Sporting Luncheon?

Former England and British & Irish Lions international Tim Stimpson returns as Master of Ceremonies, while renowned comedian Aaron James will provide entertainment during the afternoon.

What is included in the Midlands Sporting Luncheon hospitality package?

Eventmasters’ Horton Suite hospitality includes a four-course Christmas luncheon, an interview with Jamie George, comedy entertainment and fundraising activities. Private tables are available for groups of 8, 10 or 12 guests.

How can I attend the 2026 Midlands Sporting Luncheon?

Guests can enquire about hospitality through Eventmasters’ official website or contact the team on 0121 233 6500. Availability is limited for the December event.