Hosted at the ICC Birmingham on 31st October 2025, the ukactive Awards are recognised as the UK’s premier celebration of excellence in the fitness, leisure and physical activity sector. The event honours the individuals and organisations driving innovation, impact and positive change nationwide, with this year attracting a record number of entries.

Sarah Watts, Founder and CEO of Alliance Leisure, received the sector’s most prestigious individual honour,  the Jan Spaticchia Special Recognition Award, in acknowledgement of her outstanding contribution to the UK leisure landscape over the past 25 years.

The award, named in memory of industry visionary Jan Spaticchia, recognises those who have made an exceptional, long-term impact on the physical activity sector through leadership, innovation and community transformation.

Sarah says:

“I’m deeply honoured to receive this award. Jan was a true pioneer whose belief in the power of physical activity to transform lives continues to inspire our industry.  This recognition reflects the passion and dedication of everyone at Alliance and our partners across the UK who work tirelessly to create spaces where people of all ages and abilities can thrive. Together, we’re shaping a healthier, happier, more connected future.”

Adding to the celebrations, Alliance Leisure, in association with Roberts Limbrick, also claimed the national Design, Build or Refurbishment of the Year Award for the Warsop Health Hub, developed in partnership with Mansfield District Council through the UK Leisure Framework (owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd).

The £8.7 million facility is a trailblazing model of community-centred, sustainable leisure delivery, co-created with local residents to meet their needs and aspirations. The fully electric hub integrates sport, wellbeing, digital inclusion and social connection under one roof, delivered ahead of schedule and within budget.

From its splash water zone and inclusive fitness suite to an open-access café and IT suite, every feature was designed to promote accessibility, adaptability and community ownership.

Paul Cluett, Managing Director, Alliance Leisure, says:

“To win two national awards in one night is an incredible achievement and testament to the skill, creativity and commitment of our team and partners. The Warsop Health Hub exemplifies what can be achieved through true collaboration, delivering not just a building, but a long-term legacy for local people.”

Alliance Leisure’s Station Leisure and Learning Centre new build, delivered for East Lindsey District Council, was highly commended on the night, while its refurbishment of Peterlee Leisure Centre for Durham County Council, was also shortlisted for the Design, Build or Refurbishment of the Year category.