The analysis by the Sport Industry Research Centre at Sheffield Hallam University and Manchester Metropolitan University shows every £1 spent on community sport and physical activity generates over £4 for the economy.

Tim Hollingsworth, Sport England chief executive, said: ‘These latest figures are a positive and compelling reminder of why we must continue to invest in getting and keeping our nation more active.

‘Community sport and physical activity has a crucial role to play in growing our economy, building stronger communities and making us all healthier and happier.

‘This report, along with the social value research we published last year, can help local authorities, businesses and the voluntary sector to understand the value of promoting activity.'

The analysis reveals a £35bn investment in community sport and physical activity in 2022/23 delivered £148bn to the economy in England.