Sports clubs across England continue to grow – with the number of playing members and volunteer numbers rising steadily – according to a new report published by the Sport and Recreation Alliance (SRA) and Sport England.

The Sports Club Survey Report 2017/18 is based on responses from more than 1,600 clubs and shows that clubs achieved growth despite what they describe as a "challenging environment of increased costs and decreased income".

More than half (53 per cent) of the clubs who responded expect their adult membership to continue increasing, with two thirds (66 per cent) expecting similar growth with their juniors.

The support network at clubs is also on the rise, with volunteers increasing by a third (33 per cent).

Although the number of people joining clubs is growing, however, the financial difficulties are evident in the clubs' average income having decreased to £35,648 – while the average expenditure has increased to £41,874 per year.

The financial concern is noted by clubs, with 44 per cent stating that increased costs will provide a challenge over the next two years.

“With continued austerity, the potential impact of Brexit and a growing dependence on local authorities for facility hire, our clubs must be prepared to be flexible in how they make themselves financially sustainable," said James Allen, SRA's director of policy.

To download the full report in PDF format, click here for the SRA website.