Here are just some of the celebrities who spent time at the city’s two universities . . .
5. Eddie Izzard
Born in France and brought up in Ireland and England, Eddie Izzard studied accountancy at The University of Sheffield, before abandoning his studies to pursue his comedy career. He was later awarded an honorary degree by the university. Photo: Getty Images
6. Nikki Dean
Born near Manchester, Strictly Come Dancing presenter Nikki Dean studied Media Studies at Sheffield Hallam University in the early 2000s. Photo: Nikki Dean
7. Ayo (Andy) Akinwolere
Born in Nigeria and growing up in Birmingham, Ayo (Andy) Akinwolere studied Media Studies at Sheffield Hallam University, graduating in 2004, before later finding fame on Blue Peter. Photo: Wikipedia
8. Lee Child
Best-selling thriller writer Lee Child, whose real name is James Dover Grant, studied Law at the University of Sheffield in the 1970s. Originally from the West Midlands, he went on work in commercial television before finding fame with his Jack Reacher novels. He was awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters degree by the university and still makes regular visits to inspire current students. Photo: University of Sheffield