Sheffield councillor named in The Sunday Times Young Power List 2026

Liberal Democrat Sophie Crossthorn has been featured alongside figures including singer Raye and England footballer Alessia Russo in the annual list, which highlights 30 people under the age of 30 each year.

Crossthorn was chosen for the list in part due to her role in a successful Sheffield by-election campaign which toppled a long-standing Labour majority and beat the Reform UK candidate by only ten votes.

As a councillor herself, she has criticised Sheffield City Council and the Westminster government on a series of issues, including the cost of living and NHS waiting lists.

Crossthorn also works for Mencap, a charity advocating for people with learning disabilities, and has called for increased funding and ‘less bureaucracy’ for children with special educational needs.

In 2025, she was selected to be the Lib Dem candidate for Sheffield Hallam at the next general election.

At the time she said it was ‘truly an honour’ and pledged to be a ‘strong, independent voice’ if elected.

Crossthorn joins young politicians from across the country on the list.

She is featured alongside Euan Stainbank, one of the country’s youngest MPs, and Ciara Alleyne, a co-chair of the Young Greens who works to encourage diversity in politics.

George Finch, the 19-year-old leader of Warwickshire County Council, is also included.

The feature also showcased figures from across sport, entertainment and business. Among them is musician Raye, described as ‘one of Britain’s biggest music success stories’.

The Arsenal and England striker Alessia Russo, and Charlie Bullock, whose healthcare platform Scan.com has received more than $100 million in investment, were also featured.