18 Jun 2015

The Sport and Recreation Alliance turns 80

The Sport and Recreation Alliance turns 80 news article image

The Sport and Recreation Alliance celebrates its 80th Birthday today.

On 18 June 1935, the Central Council of Recreative Physical Training was unveiled to the world with the announcement that King George V and Queen Mary had become patrons.

By the end of 1935 the Council had over 80 organisations signed up as members, by the beginning of World War Two that number was 116 and stands today at over 320.

Although the name by which the organisation was known has also evolved over the years – from the initial CCRPT to the Central Council of Physical Recreation and now as the Sport and Recreation Alliance - the core function is and has always remained the same, namely to; serve and bring together all the organisations that deliver sport and recreation activities to help ensure they can flourish and provide access to physical activity to as many people as possible.

The Alliance would like to thank and recognise the efforts of all the staff, board, Chairs, Vice-Presidents, President, Patrons, members, Honorary Members, partners and supporters past and present for making the last 80 years possible.

Click here for a message from our Chief Executive, Emma Boggis.

Latest News

10 Apr 2026

Key appointments to the Alliance’s NGB Coalition Management Committee confirmed

The Sport and Recreation Alliance is delighted to confirm appointments to the National Governing Body (NGB) Coalition Management Committee, alongside existing NGB Coalition Division Chair, Ralph Rimmer OBE, and Deputy Chair, Jack Baker.

Read more Arrow Right
27 Mar 2026

Alliance welcomes Justine Baynes to the Board

The Sport and Recreation Alliance is delighted to welcome Justine Baynes to the Board to fill a casual vacancy.

Read more Arrow Right
20 Mar 2026

Alliance invited to Downing Street to celebrate grassroots sport alongside Prime Minister

On Monday 16 March, the Alliance joined the Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport, as well as members and sector partners, at 10 Downing Street for a reception celebrating grassroots sport.

Read more Arrow Right

Become a member

Joining the Sport and Recreation Alliance is pretty simple, but worthwhile!

Register now

Our Partners

Admincontrol logoAir IT logoJMW logoSport:80 logoZellar logo93FT logo