Ukactive has named Huw Edwards, director of public affairs and research, as acting CEO until it finds a permanent replacement for the outgoing Steven Ward.

A statement from the not-for-profit organisation reads: "The recruitment process for a permanent CEO is set to commence shortly, and the ukactive executive team is working hard to ensure a smooth transition as we enter an important new phase in the growth of ukactive.

"The ukactive board can confirm that it has agreed with Huw Edwards that he will take up the position of acting CEO for the interim period until a permanent CEO is confirmed."

Ward is set to step down this month after more than 12 years with the organisation.

He is leaving to take up a role as chief transformation officer at Spanish fitness operator Ingesport, owner of the GoFit brand.

He first joined ukactive in 2006 as a policy intern, before rising through the ranks and taking a leadership position as executive director in 2015. He was named CEO in May 2017.