IMSPA, which secured chartership status from the Royal Privy Council earlier this year, is the first professional body with the potential to unite all of the one million sports and physical activity experts in the UK, providing leadership, support and empowerment across the sector, officials claim.

In acceptance of the award, Coe said: "I am honoured to become a companion of IMSPA, which marks a real milestone for the sports and physical activity sector in the UK.

"By bringing together the skills and expertise of everyone in the industry, we will be in an incredibly strong position to ensure that the legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be felt throughout the UK for many years to come."

The announcement of the double Olympic 1500 metres champions award will provide a huge boost to IMSPA's membership drive and the launch of its partnership packages.

Almost 30 organisations have already signed up to become partners of the Institute over the last month alone, including several big industry names such as DC Leisure and Lifetime Training Group, as well as national governing bodies such as the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA).

On hearing Coe's acceptance of his honorary position, Sean Holt, IMSPA's chief executive, said: "We are really pleased that Seb has taken on the role of ambassador for IMSPA, recognising the importance of the institute in professionalising our sector.

"Delivering the Olympic legacy by developing the sector's workforce is one of our core objectives, so it's fantastic to have Seb on board."

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