The Washington, Sheffield – 58 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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The Washington — student bar photo

The Washington -

Cleanliness
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Price
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Smoking

Based on 58 user ratings

79 Fitzwilliam St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 4JP, United Kingdom

💬 What Students Say

The Washington is a popular student pub located in the heart of Sheffield, just a stone's throw away from the University of Sheffield. This venue has carved out a niche for itself as a go-to spot for students looking for a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. With its eclectic mix of live music, friendly staff, and a diverse crowd, The Washington offers a unique blend of pub culture and nightlife that appeals to a wide range of students. The pub's charm lies in its offbeat decor and welcoming vibe, making it a comfortable place to unwind after a long day of lectures or to kick off a night out with friends.

One of the standout features of The Washington is its atmosphere. Students frequently mention the positive energy that fills the space, which is often described as lively yet laid-back. The venue tends to attract a crowd that is friendly and approachable, creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. Many reviews highlight the sense of community that The Washington fosters, with patrons often feeling like they are part of a larger family. This welcoming vibe is a significant draw for students who may be new to the area or looking to make new friends.

In terms of entertainment, The Washington doesn’t disappoint. The venue is known for hosting a variety of live music acts and DJs, which adds to the overall experience. The music selection is often praised for being on point, keeping the energy high and the crowd engaged. Whether it’s a local band or a DJ spinning a mix of genres, students appreciate the opportunity to enjoy live performances in a casual setting. This focus on music makes The Washington a perfect spot for those looking to discover new sounds while enjoying a drink or two.

When it comes to drinks, The Washington is noted for its reasonable prices. Students are always on the lookout for venues that don’t break the bank, and The Washington delivers on that front. The extensive drinks menu includes a range of options from classic pub fare to creative cocktails, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Many reviews mention the affordability of drinks, making it an attractive option for students who want to enjoy a night out without worrying about their budget. The pub's drink deals are particularly popular, and students often highlight how this aspect enhances their overall experience.

The crowd at The Washington is another aspect that students appreciate. The venue tends to attract a diverse mix of people, creating an interesting social dynamic. Many reviews mention that the crowd is generally chill and laid-back, which contributes to the friendly atmosphere. This mix of personalities helps to ensure that every visit feels unique, with new connections and memorable moments to be made. The Washington is especially popular during the weekends, where it can get quite busy, but students report that the queues are manageable, allowing for quick entry and minimal waiting time.

What sets The Washington apart from other venues is its combination of a relaxed pub environment with the excitement of live music. While it may not be the most extravagant nightlife spot in Sheffield, it offers a solid alternative for students looking for a fun night out without the pretense often associated with more upscale venues. Students appreciate that The Washington feels like a safe haven where they can enjoy themselves without any judgment or awkwardness. This quality makes it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more casual night out.

However, like any venue, The Washington does have its downsides. Some students have noted that while the atmosphere is generally enjoyable, it can get a bit crowded during peak times, which might detract from the experience for some. Additionally, while the music is often praised, there are occasions when the selection may not cater to everyone's taste. This variability can affect the overall vibe, especially if the crowd is not as engaged. Furthermore, while the venue is known for its friendly staff, there are occasional reports of slower service during busy nights, which can be frustrating for patrons eager to grab a drink.

In conclusion, The Washington stands out as a beloved student pub that offers a blend of great music, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where students can enjoy a laid-back night out, connect with friends, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re looking for a chill spot to unwind or a lively environment to kick off your evening, The Washington has something to offer. It’s particularly suited for students who appreciate a friendly, inclusive vibe and are looking for a reliable venue to frequent during their time at university. With its unique charm and vibrant energy, The Washington is undoubtedly a highlight of student life in Sheffield.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Great atmosphere with a friendly and inclusive vibe.
  • Affordable drink prices and good drink deals.
  • Consistent live music and engaging entertainment.
  • Diverse crowd that creates an interesting social dynamic.
  • Quick entry with manageable queues during busy times.
  • Feels safe and welcoming, perfect for making new connections.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can get crowded during peak times, affecting the experience.
  • Music selection may not appeal to everyone on some nights.
  • Occasional slower service during busy nights.
  • Not the most extravagant nightlife option available.
  • Some students find it not as exciting compared to other venues.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a chill, friendly pub atmosphere with good music and affordable drinks.

💡 Things to Know

  • The Washington is popular on weekends, so arrive early to avoid long queues.
  • Check their social media for updates on live music events.
  • It’s a great place for last-minute plans with friends.
  • The beer garden is a nice spot to relax during sunny days.
  • Expect a mix of students and locals, creating a diverse crowd.

❓ Common Questions

What is The Washington like?

The Washington is a lively student pub known for its friendly atmosphere, live music, and affordable drinks.

Is it good value?

Yes, students frequently mention that The Washington offers reasonable drink prices and good deals.

When do students go to The Washington?

Students often visit on weekends, especially for live music events and to unwind after classes.

What type of crowd can I expect?

You can expect a diverse mix of students and locals, all enjoying a relaxed and friendly vibe.

Is there outdoor seating available?

Yes, The Washington has a beer garden that is perfect for enjoying drinks on sunny days.

The Washington — student bar photo
Reviews
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Stopped by The Washington a few times during uni and it always felt reliable for a laid-back night. No frills, just good drinks and a good crowd, which is exactly what you want when you need a break from studying.
By user499064 (Sheffield) on Jul 24th 2026
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What really surprised me was how impeccably clean this place is; everything, including the restrooms, was spotless. That's not something you usually find in a place like this. From the get-go, it felt welcoming.
By user650147 (Sheffield) on Jul 19th 2026
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Value for money is key here, and it hits the mark with reasonably priced drinks and a fun atmosphere. plus, the crowd adds to the experience, so you’re not just paying for drinks but also for a lively night out
By user787556 (Sheffield) on Jul 14th 2026
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The lively crowd here creates a welcoming vibe that I appreciated. However, the drink prices seemed a bit steep compared to other spots in town. Despite this, it was overall a decent night out.
By user756387 (Sheffield) on Jul 9th 2026
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Finding this place was such a relief, especially when you need a break from studying. It’s situated in an area that draws in a diverse crowd, which makes every visit feel fresh and exciting, as you meet different faces each time. Being right near campus also means it’s super accessible, letting you unwind without the hassle of a long trek back home.
By user338869 (Sheffield) on Jul 3rd 2026
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The drink prices here are a bit steeper than I expected, which was surprising. However, the overall energy and vibe were still worth it for a night out. The DJ did a great job keeping everyone engaged with a solid mix, making it an enjoyable experience.
By user539156 (Sheffield) on Jun 28th 2026
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The energy here is undeniable, with thumping music intertwining with conversation and laughter. It's a lively spot, a real mix of locals and students, making it easy to meet new people. The staff strike the perfect balance between being laid back and attentive, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages you to stay longer and enjoy the vibe.
By user459925 (Sheffield) on Jun 23rd 2026
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Drinks at the Washington are priced well for students, which is a relief when you're living off a tight budget. I appreciated the variety on offer, making it feel like I could enjoy myself without worrying about overspending. It’s nice to find a place where the value feels good, especially when juggling early starts in my nursing course.
By user602686 (Sheffield) on Jun 18th 2026
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Music here is often on point, and it just pulls people in. If you're looking for a place to unwind and escape the studio grind, this place has a nice energy that's hard to find elsewhere. You might even find some familiar faces out dancing and enjoying themselves, which adds to the fun.
By user233024 (Sheffield) on Jun 13th 2026
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You'll definitely notice how loud this place can get during peak times, making it tough to have a casual conversation. But honestly, that's part of its charm—it keeps the vibe lively and energetic. Sometimes you find yourself practically yelling just to chat with friends, but that’s what makes it fun.
By user457774 (Sheffield) on Jun 8th 2026
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The vibe at The Washington can really depend on the staff's mood. When they're on their game, it definitely enhances the atmosphere and makes the night more enjoyable.
By user873010 (Sheffield) on Jun 3rd 2026
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Lively and a bit eclectic, The Washington suits students who thrive in social settings and enjoy a mix of music styles, making it a great place for meeting new people and letting loose after classes.
By user437083 (Sheffield) on May 26th 2026
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Noise levels at the washington can be intense, sometimes making it hard to chat, but it adds to the thrilling nightlife experience.
By user442978 (Sheffield) on May 20th 2026
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The energy here is infectious, with laughter and chatter blending seamlessly with the music. It's a diverse crowd, all ages and backgrounds, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for sparking a conversation or simply soaking in the vibrant buzz around you.
By user788989 (Sheffield) on May 13th 2026
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The scent of fresh paint and polished floors here is a refreshing change from some dive bars. Cleanliness is a small detail, but it really makes you feel like this place values its patrons. Staff are quick to wipe up spills and attend to tables, which adds to the overall experience when you just want to unwind. 😊
By user756771 (Sheffield) on May 7th 2026
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Tucked away in a corner, the friendly bar staff always remembered my drink order after just one visit, which made me feel kind of special. It’s little touches like that which keep me coming back, even when the crowd gets rowdy.
By user616969 (Sheffield) on May 1st 2026
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Thursday nights at The Washington are filled with laughter and the sound of clinking glasses; it's like everyone is there to unwind and enjoy themselves. It gave me a much-needed break from my busy schedule.
By user635550 (Sheffield) on Apr 25th 2026
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It was a Friday night at The Washington after a marathon study session, and the place had a comforting vibe with indie music and familiar faces. The staff chatted with everyone, making the cider taste even better. Before I knew it, I was dancing with strangers who felt like friends by midnight.
By user929154 (Sheffield) on Apr 19th 2026
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Honestly thought it would just be another pub, but the washington surprised me with its welcoming atmosphere and diverse crowd. felt pretty comfortable straight away, which isn’t always the case in student places. worth going back to see what the live music scene is all about next time.
By user747270 (Sheffield) on Apr 13th 2026
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Caught a local band playing an unexpectedly brilliant set in the corner of The Washington, and chatting with fellow students around us just added to the night.
By user224045 (Sheffield) on Apr 10th 2026
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Offers a unique charm with its mix of live music and laid-back student vibes that you won't find in every student pub. unlike more generic spots, it has a slightly rebellious feel which adds a bit of character to nights out.
By user492902 (Sheffield) on Apr 5th 2026
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Always a mix of people, from students catching live music to locals popping in for a pint. everyone seems pretty laid back, and you never feel out of place, which makes for a comfortable night even if it's not the liveliest.
By user968277 (Sheffield) on Apr 2nd 2026
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You sort of grow into loving the washington over time. it starts as just another pub visit, but after a few nights, the mix of tunes and chatty locals feels like home. it's always a nice surprise when you realize you're becoming a regular without even planning it.
By user872771 (Sheffield) on Apr 1st 2026
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Once spent an evening there with some new mates and found ourselves chatting for hours over pints. felt like we were part of something with all the students around us sharing the same vibe.
By user365639 (Sheffield) on Mar 27th 2026
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Swing by the washington after my economics tutorial most weeks. it's a chill way to unwind while catching up with friends before heading back to late-night study sessions. fits perfectly into the routine without feeling like a massive detour.
By user239326 (Sheffield) on Mar 24th 2026
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Heading here midweek has become a bit of a tradition for us. This place strikes the perfect balance between being laid-back and lively, making it our go-to for unwinding. 😊
By user866782 (Sheffield) on Mar 19th 2026
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The energy here is contagious, turning any night into a memorable one. Once you're caught up in it, the hours just seem to fly by.
By user149449 (Sheffield) on Mar 15th 2026
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Usually, I’m in and out quickly, but one night here was different. The band playing created a lively atmosphere that kept everyone engaged and made the experience memorable. Despite the buzz, the staff stayed relaxed and provided attentive service without being intrusive. 🎶
By user541335 (Sheffield) on Mar 3rd 2026
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Felt like coming home with the warm welcome and familiar faces 😊.
By user508705 (Sheffield) on Feb 10th 2026
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Felt more relaxed here compared to other places around town. great mix of local music and student vibes, which makes it different from some other overhyped spots. decent place to unwind without too much fuss.
By user633670 (Sheffield) on Feb 4th 2026
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The Washington is the perfect spot for those spontaneous nights where time just seems to slip away. I found myself reconnecting with an old classmate from fresher's week, and the entire place was buzzing with life, each corner filled with stories waiting to unfold. It was incredible to feel like part of something bigger! 🌟
By user680872 (Sheffield) on Jan 29th 2026
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This place stands out in Sheffield with its lively and welcoming vibe, even on more relaxed nights. The atmosphere makes you feel like you’re instantly part of the scene, and it's got that laid-back charm that I love. Feels more alive than other spots I've visited. 😊
By user623592 (Sheffield) on Jan 24th 2026
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This place is packed with friendly folks, which makes for a great atmosphere. Ended up having a nice chat with some people at the next table, and it felt so natural. The easygoing vibe here is warm and welcoming.
By user756351 (Sheffield) on Jan 20th 2026
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This place has an atmosphere that makes you feel like you're just hanging out at a friend’s house, but with a much better soundtrack and a lively crowd. Everyone here seems ready to have an incredible time, and it really keeps the energy up all night long.
By user242504 (Sheffield) on Jan 15th 2026
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Stumbled in with some mates after a long study session, and the live music really lifted our spirits. solid mix of bands playing that night.
By user561018 (Sheffield) on Jan 11th 2026
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The music creates a perfect blend of chaos and fun here. It's rare to find a place where everyone seems to be on the same wavelength, but that's exactly the vibe.
By user433341 (Sheffield) on Jan 9th 2026
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Wandered in on a random Thursday, thought i'd only stay for one drink but the live music had me hooked 🎶. ended up hanging out with random classmates , nobody was in a hurry to leave, and that just says it all, really.
By user148117 (Sheffield) on Jan 4th 2026
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Tables have little notches where you can rest your drink safely even when the place is packed. nice touch since juggling a pint while moving around can sometimes be tricky.
By user360013 (Sheffield) on Jan 1st 2026
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Noticed the walls had loads of gig posters from years ago, gives it this chilled out, lived-in feel that feels oddly comforting. feels like you're part of some ongoing story, not just another customer getting a pint.
By user660624 (Sheffield) on Dec 26th 2025
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Checking out the washington for live music turned out to be a brilliant idea. the atmosphere was lively and even a bit quirky, with students and locals mingling easily. felt right at home in the mix of tunes and chatter.
By user585185 (Sheffield) on Dec 21st 2025
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Casually chatting with the staff here feels as natural as being among friends, which makes for a laid-back atmosphere. The positive energy is infectious, creating a vibe that makes it a nice spot for a relaxed evening.
By user836012 (Sheffield) on Dec 18th 2025
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Staff here really know how to make you feel at home without overdoing it. they keep the energy lively and fun, making it a solid spot for unwinding after group projects or just a casual chat with mates.
By user417717 (Sheffield) on Dec 13th 2025
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The Washington is a fantastic spot with an atmosphere that's hard to beat. Whether you're up for a dance or just want to chill, the crowd always brings great vibes. It's a place where you can't help but have a memorable night.
By user694658 (Sheffield) on Dec 6th 2025
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People here are pretty diverse, which makes for some interesting conversations and mix of vibes. you can tell it’s a popular hangout , always someone you know or someone new to meet.
By user568255 (Sheffield) on Dec 1st 2025
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This place offers a genuinely authentic music scene that stands out from other student pubs. There's a constant stream of fresh bands performing, creating a lively buzz that enhances the experience.
By user320473 (Sheffield) on Nov 27th 2025
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Sat on one of the comfy sofas with some mates, we ended up chatting for hours without even realizing the time. good music playing in the background kept the energy up. definitely a place that feels like home, especially when you just want to unwind.
By user414615 (Sheffield) on Nov 22nd 2025
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It's always a fun night here, especially with the drinks constantly flowing. I really enjoy chatting with the bartenders as they add a personal touch to the experience, making sure everyone has a fantastic time.
By user440101 (Sheffield) on Nov 15th 2025
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Getting used to the washington was surprisingly easy, and popping in after uni turned into my comfort zone bit by bit. solid mix of music and friendly chatter made me feel pretty welcome.
By user146854 (Sheffield) on Nov 9th 2025
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Noticed loads of students crammed in and chatting away, making it feel like an extension of campus life 😅. everyone seemed to know each other, creating this casual, friendly buzz over drinks and casual debates.
By user921312 (Sheffield) on Oct 31st 2025
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The Washington has that welcoming vibe that makes any night out feel special. It's like the staff know exactly how to make you feel at home, with their friendly smiles and a knack for creating a great atmosphere. It's a place where you can easily enjoy yourself with friends, thanks to that personal touch they bring to everything.
By user395453 (Sheffield) on Oct 26th 2025
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Everyone seemed to be in high spirits, enjoying the night with plenty of laughter and chatter. lot of fellow students around, probably taking a break from studying , made the whole place feel like a lively hangout.
By user697552 (Sheffield) on Oct 22nd 2025
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Noticed the random graffiti in the back garden that kind of adds character to the place. gives it a quirky edge that perfectly matches the laid-back crowd inside. it's the sort of spot where you feel comfortable striking up a conversation with just about anyone.
By user714826 (Sheffield) on Oct 19th 2025
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Heard it's usually packed with students but we still found a cosy corner.
By user154390 (Sheffield) on Oct 16th 2025
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This place perfectly balances a relaxed and lively atmosphere, making it a favorite of mine. The laid-back crowd and classic pub chatter create an inviting vibe that's hard to resist. It all combined for a fantastic night, and I can't wait to return for more of the same.
By user851010 (Sheffield) on Oct 12th 2025
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I was pleasantly surprised by how this place feels so homey and welcoming. It's not just another pub; there's just something about the vibe here that makes it special. From the friendly staff to the other students, everyone seems genuinely open and inviting. It's got a lively feel without being overwhelming, and that's why I keep coming back! 😊
By user494290 (Sheffield) on Oct 8th 2025
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Staff here really add to the experience at the washington. they're genuinely engaging, which makes being there feel welcoming and not just like another busy pub. even when the place is heaving, there's always a friendly face willing to help or have a quick chat.
By user602052 (Sheffield) on Oct 2nd 2025
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Friday afternoons have turned into a little tradition for me and my friends, hanging out here post-lectures. The vibe is always lively, and there's a great buzz among the crowd, which makes for a fun start to the weekend. The whole atmosphere is just perfect for unwinding and enjoying some downtime.
By user297542 (Sheffield) on Sep 26th 2025
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Music at The Washington really sets the tone for a laid-back evening. ended up chatting with some local students and it felt like we fit right in, which is not always easy in a new spot.
By user553724 (Sheffield) on Sep 21st 2025
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By user228311 (Sheffield) on Dec 4th 2024