The Big Issue has just published its annual ‘Top 50 Most Influential Northerner‘ list.  Buy the Big Issue in the North to read in full how the list came together and why George Osborne makes the top of the list.  It’s hardly controversial that the Chancellor has huge influence but his inclusion as a Northerner provoked much discussion on the judging panel, on which I had a place.  The most interesting discussion we had was around the word influence which is, of course, all about timing and not always – but often – about money. Which is why, as we approach London 2012, I’m really pleased that Alistair Brownlee made the list.

Alistair Brownlee London 2012 traithlete