After Dinner Speakers: Nigel Starmer-Smith, Kate Bush, Zoe Ball

He joined the BBC in 1970 while still playing for his nation. Born in Cheltenham on Christmas Day 1944, he was educated at Magdalen College School, Oxford and University College, Oxford. He worked as a teacher at Epsom College, Surrey before embarking on his broadcasting career. After working as an assistant producer in radio outside broadcasts for three years, he joined BBC TV'ss Rugby Special as presenter and commentator. Together with Bill McLaren, Starmer-Smith has been one of the mainstays of the BBC's TV rugby commentary team ever since. He made his international debut in 1969 when England beat South Africa at Twickenham. He played for Harlequins at club level, and represented England until 1971. A keen golfer, tennis player, horse racing fan and pianist, Nigel has also commentated on a variety of other sports, including hockey, basketball, volleyball and water-skiing.