WORLD Cup winner Jason Leonard will be revealing just how he came to be known as “The Fun Bus” when he appears as the star turn at an annual York fundraising lunch.

The 42-year-old, part of the all-conquering 2003 England rugby union team which triumphed in Australia, is the guest speaker at the York Sportsman’s Lunch at York Racecourse on Thursday, November 3.

Leonard joins esteemed company at the lunch, following in previous years the likes of England manager Martin Johnson, South African legend Francois Pienaar and Australian try-scoring machine David Campese in addressing the sell-out event in the Voltigeur Suite.

This will be the seventh time York-based Sporting Connexions has organised the lunch, which has raised tens of thousands of pounds for good causes during its run.

Leonard appeared 114 times for England between 1990 and 2004 and still holds the record as the world’s most capped forward.

The prop also appeared five times for the British and Irish Lions and was part of the 1997 Test team which won in South Africa.

Enjoying a career which straddled both the amateur and professional eras, the former carpenter also played for Saracens and Harlequins – making 214 appearances for the latter.

The lunch will also pay tribute to the Yorkshire Regiment, who are guests of honour, and will thank them for their continuing efforts in conflicts such as the on-going campaign in Afghanistan and will also celebrate the testimonial of Leeds Rhinos scrum-half Rob Burrow.

It also aids the Sports Development Foundation charity.

Lunch joint-organiser Mark Pepper, of Sporting Connexions, said: “Jason Leonard continues the tradition of having world class sportspeople attend the event.

“We have had a great response to the lunch so far and that highlights both its popularity and the good work it helps to fund throughout the community.”

There is still limited availability for the event, which cost £750, plus VAT for a table of ten.

To book, email admin@sportingconnexions.com or phone 01904 562562.