As part of the proposed refreshed approach to civic honours, the Sheffield Legends, who need to have a strong connection to the city, will once again shine a spotlight on those who have made a substantial contribution to Sheffield’s reputation and culture.
Those who are awarded the honour will have a plaque with their name on installed at the top of Fargate, outside Sheffield Town Hall.
If the proposal is approved by the Strategy and Resources Committee on Thursday 10th July, a six-week public nomination process will launch this summer, inviting residents to put forward individuals or groups who meet the criteria for Sheffield Legend status.
Nominations will be reviewed by an independent Awards Panel made up of representatives from across the city.
What makes a Sheffield Legend?
The Sheffield Legends honour is awarded to individuals or groups who are or were at the top of their field, easily recognisable at a national or global level, and who have made a significant contribution to promoting Sheffield in a positive light. Their achievements should be widely acknowledged and verifiable through public acclaim.
This award is one of three key civic honours in Sheffield:
- Honorary Freedom of the City – The highest honour the city can bestow. There is only one nomination a year, made by the Lord Mayor after seeking advice from the Civic Awards Panel. The nomination is considered at a special meeting of Full Council, with the decision requiring a two-thirds majority vote to be granted.
- Lord Mayor Awards – Annual awards across six categories recognising outstanding contributions by individuals or organisations that live, work or are based in Sheffield. These awards celebrate excellence in community service, sport, and environmental impact.
- Sheffield Legends – A lasting tribute in the form of a plaque in the city centre, recognising those whose achievements have brought pride and recognition to Sheffield on a national or international stage.
The proposed relaunch aims to build on the success of the 2025 Lord Mayor Awards, which received over 500 nominations from across the city. The Sheffield Legends campaign would continue this momentum by engaging communities and celebrating the city’s diverse talent.
“Sheffield is a city of makers, creators and hard workers and we are bursting with talent. The Sheffield Legends relaunch is about celebrating success and honouring the great achievements from people in our city.
"Whether in sport, the arts, industry, or public service, this is about recognising those people who inspire us and the world. We want to hear from the public about which legends should be recognised and join our walk of fame."
Cllr Tom Hunt, Leader of Sheffield City Council
If the suggested approach is approved on July 10th, the new plaques will be unveiled in a public ceremony later this year, including installations for two previous recipients – Danny Willett and Joe Root - whose plaques have yet to be laid.