A hyperlocal site set up to help a city’s residents discuss the issues that matter to them has celebrated its 10th birthday.

The Sheffield Forum was founded in December 2002 by Geoff Bowen, who was then a newcomer to the city, and has become one of the UK’s largest forums, attracting more than 150,000 registered users and up to 500,000 unique visitors every month.

The site is powered by the vBulletin forum software and alongside Geoff, who has since moved away from Sheffield, there are around 25 volunteer moderators.

Geoff said: “Ten years ago, as a newcomer to Sheffield, I created a side project that enabled me to ask such crucial questions as where to find a good Sunday lunch.

“I’m very proud of what we’ve achieved over the last 10 years and would like to pass on my thanks again to the users who have been the key to our success.”