2003 World Cup winning rugby player Mike Tindall was the guest speaker at New Milton Rugby Club recently.

In a change to the usual format, Mike recalled stories of his playing career, his off field headlines, his time in the ‘Jungle’ and his enjoyment as a family man following questions put to him by compere Grahame Goodyer and questions from the room.

No subject was off limits and Mike was happy to speak of his early days with Bath and the quality players and coaches he trained with. He spoke of his time in the England squad from 2000 and how Sir Clive Woodward changed the way that English rugby was managed and played. He talked proudly of playing in the world cup final and, unaware of the rugby fervour back home, the totally unexpected reception the team received on their arrival at Heathrow and then the bus ride through central London. A scene he recalls often as ‘beyond belief’.

As part of the presentation, diners were shown a short video of Mike taking part in the infamous drinking trial whilst he was in the Jungle. For Mike, it bought back vivid memories of just how vile some of the drinks were. He also spoke about some of his fellow camp mates and their approach to being there. He said some were there to present themselves in a better light, rather than just to be themselves and enjoy the experience.

The evening closed with Mike saying just how much he enjoyed being a husband and father to his three children. Although his playing days may be over, he still enjoys being a member of his local community club, Minchinhampton. A small club like New Milton RFC, Mike said he enjoyed the camaraderie that local rugby clubs bring to their members and joy he gets watching his two daughters playing in the rugby minis on a Sunday morning.

Mike Tindall is married to the late Queen’s grand-daughter Zara. They have two daughters Mia and Lena and a son Lucas.