* Explores British sport as experienced by those who watched it, played it, wrote and talked about it. * Gives equal attention to the post--war years and to the more immediate present. * Includes discussion of women, ethnic minorities, and the disabled within the general text rather than treating them separately.

Preface. 1. Playing and Watching. 2. Reconstruction, 1945-1952. 3. Amateurism. 4. The Professionals. 5. Media and Celebrity. 6. Civic and National Identity. 7. Governments and Sport. Conclusion. Bibliography. Index.

This book provides a lively and authoritative history of British sport in an era of dramatic changes for both players and fans. Beginning at a time when sport was still largely a male preserve and professional footballers were paid as manual workers, the authors trace developments to the present day through the decline of amateurism, the rise of a celebrity sporting culture, the increasing intervention of government and the role of sport, especially football, as an expression of civic and national identity. The book examines a wide range of major sports and includes discussion of the contribution of women and ethnic minorities to sport in Britain. A central theme is the role of the media in shaping British sport in the second half of the twentieth century. This book offers new perspectives on a major aspect of British social life, setting the great performances and personalities of post-war sport in the context of the changing social history of the nation.

"Any book by Holt or Mason is recommended reading, but one by Holt and Mason is mandatory as this book has proved ... I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, I learnt much and congratulate Holt and Mason on a fine publication." British Journal of Teaching Physical Education