Floods like the ones we saw in 2007 and 2009 claim lives and ruin homes and businesses, causing devastation that can affect victims for years afterwards.

However, the city’s major flooding disaster took place on the night of March 11, 1864 when Dale Dyke Dam broke, sending a wall of water through the Loxley and Don Valleys and on towards the city centre and as far as Rotherham. Around 240 people died and hundreds of buildings were destroyed.

*There’s lots more stories and pictures of Sheffield’s history to be found on our Facebook page, Retro and memories - Sheffield Star.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor