Latest Pub News
If you know of any pub or Sheffield-related news that we have missed out, please contact us so that we can add the story.
The Psalter Reopens Under Acclaimed Chef Tom Lawson
Sheffield's hospitality scene has a fresh new addition with the reopening of The Psalter, a stylish hotel, bar, and restaurant located on Psalter Lane in the popular Sharrow neighbourhood. This historic site has undergone a stunning transformation thanks to a £175,000 makeover led by renowned chef Tom Lawson, previously of the Michelin-recommended Rafters restaurant. After closing its doors at the end of 2023, The Psalter welcomed guests again on 15th August 2024, bringing a much-anticipated new dining and stay experience to the community.
The Psalter now offers 21 elegantly redesigned bedrooms, each thoughtfully renovated to provide a blend of comfort and modern style. These accommodations, combined with a 50-seat restaurant and a welcoming bar, make The Psalter a destination not only for visitors but also for local residents looking to enjoy a night out or a staycation in a beautifully restored setting.
Chef Tom Lawson brings his culinary expertise to The Psalter's dining experience, which emphasises modern British sharing plates crafted with locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. The menu offers a range of options, from smaller, affordable dishes starting at just £3 or £4 to larger, heartier plates priced around £30. A standout favourite so far is the Psalter Fried Chicken, served with a tangy barbecue sauce and priced at £9. Available in both the bar and the restaurant, this dish has quickly become a go-to choice for patrons, pairing perfectly with a local beer or a glass of wine.
"We've been super busy so far, which is good," Tom said. "We're seeing lots of repeat custom already, and it's nice to have that local support. People are happy to have it back in the community after it was closed for so long."
Looking ahead, The Psalter has plans to expand its culinary offerings even further. The restaurant intends to introduce traditional Sunday lunches, offering guests and locals another reason to visit this chic venue. The kitchen will be led by Head Chef Kyle Leek-Spooner, who previously collaborated with Tom Lawson at the Rafters at Riverside House Hotel, ensuring the team brings experience and creativity to the table.
New Sports Bar, BOX, Set to Open on 23rd November
Arc Inspirations, the group behind popular venues like Manahatta, has announced that its newest sports bar under the BOX brand will officially open on Saturday 23rd November. Located at Barker's Pool in the heart of Sheffield, this £2.7 million project promises to bring a fresh, high-energy space for sports enthusiasts, music lovers, and partygoers alike.
BOX, while under the same ownership as the New York-inspired Manahatta, is a departure from the cocktail-centric, upscale ambience of its sister venue. BOX offers an engaging, relaxed atmosphere where patrons can "watch, play and party." Described by Arc Inspirations as a "game-changing high-quality sports bar," BOX has already seen success with other locations in Nottingham, Birmingham, Manchester, and Leeds. The Sheffield location aims to capture the spirit of the city's lively sports culture and provide a laid-back daytime vibe that transforms into a high-energy entertainment space by night.
Arc Inspirations CEO Martin Wolstencroft expressed enthusiasm for expanding in Sheffield, where Manahatta has thrived since its opening last year. "We're thrilled to be doubling our presence in the centre of Sheffield, a city where we've seen great success," he said. "Sheffield's rich sporting heritage and passionate community make it the perfect home for BOX, and we're excited to introduce a new kind of venue to this vibrant city."
Set within the renovated former Kingdom nightclub building, BOX Sheffield spans two floors and features a bold, modern design. The venue boasts Sheffield's largest indoor screen and 30 large HD TVs, all positioned to create an optimal viewing experience, including raised "stadium-style" seating for an immersive feel. This extensive setup ensures fans won't miss a moment of the action, whether it's football, boxing, NFL, or Formula 1.
In addition to the impressive sports-viewing experience, BOX will offer a range of interactive games and live entertainment, including electric darts, immersive horse racing, and karaoke rooms for private gatherings. These features align with Arc Inspirations' broader City Centre Growth strategy, which includes a target of 50 bars nationwide by 2030.
BOX Sheffield aims to become a top destination for sports, food, and entertainment. Highlights include:
* Thursday Night Events: ‘Bandeoke’ nights where guests can perform with a live band, and the "Big Box Quiz."
* Weekend Entertainment: live music every Friday and Saturday featuring local talent.
* Bottomless Brunch: a 90-minute experience available for £34.95, with unlimited Prosecco, cocktails, and select beverages.
* Happy Hours and Deals: two-for-one cocktails all day from Sunday to Friday and until 5pm on Saturdays, £8 weekday lunch specials, and £5 after-work pints.
The food menu at BOX caters to a range of tastes with a selection of loaded fries, Neapolitan-style pizzas, burgers, kebabs, and sharing platters. Arc Inspirations has designed the menu to complement the laid-back, social setting of BOX, offering crowd-pleasers that are ideal for sharing among friends and family.
BOX's launch in Sheffield will create approximately 55 new jobs, contributing to the local economy and offering a variety of positions in hospitality, entertainment, and management. This opening is part of Arc Inspirations' strategy to expand its footprint across major UK cities, with additional locations anticipated over the next year.
With its wide-ranging appeal, BOX Sheffield promises to be more than just a sports bar - it's a space where fans can experience a unique blend of sports, music, games, and quality dining.
Cactus Jack's Brings Nashville Vibes to Devonshire Street
Sheffield has a new nightlife gem: Cactus Jack's Honky Tonk, the latest bar and live music venue to open in the vibrant Devonshire Quarter. Located at the intersection of Fitzwilliam Street and Devonshire Street, Cactus Jack's Honky Tonk offers a fresh take on nightlife with its Americana-inspired decor, live country music, and immersive Nashville atmosphere.
Cactus Jack's Honky Tonk is the brainchild of Paul McIvor, the name behind the popular Cactus Jack's Tex Mex restaurant in Doncaster. McIvor has a proven eye for capturing the essence of American culture, and he has completely revamped the space to bring a taste of Nashville to the heart of Sheffield. McIvor said, "We are completely transforming the place. We've ripped out what was in there and put in themed furniture like barrels, and even themed light fittings,"” highlighting the meticulous effort that has gone into creating a unique space.
The decor includes rustic furniture and classic American fixtures, with eye-catching barrels and vintage-inspired light fittings that help transport patrons straight to a Southern honky-tonk. Staff members will be dressed in cowboy hats, adding to the immersive experience that promises guests a true taste of Americana.
Cactus Jack's Honky Tonk isn't just about the look; it's a celebration of country music, both old and new. The venue has a rotating lineup of DJs and live bands dedicated to the sounds of country and western music. From modern hits by stars like Taylor Swift to timeless classics by legends such as Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers, the music selection ensures that both contemporary country fans and traditionalists will find something to love. The aim is to make every night feel like a lively Nashville night out, complete with all the charm and energy that define the genre.
The building that houses Cactus Jack's Honky Tonk has a rich history in Sheffield's nightlife scene, despite its relatively recent construction in 2008. Originally built to replace an older structure, it has since been home to a string of popular bars, each with its own unique character. Over the past decade, it has operated under various identities, from the lively Coco Lounge Bar - known for its large dance floor, private karaoke room, and late-night hours - to the trendy cocktail bars Zinc and Be At One.
Cactus Jack's marks a departure from the cocktail and karaoke-centric past of its predecessors, offering something new and distinct for the area: a venue dedicated to live music, dancing, and an authentic honky-tonk experience. With its Americana flair, the bar is likely to appeal to a wide range of patrons looking for a unique night out.
Pad 12 Opens in Neepsend Near Kelham Island
A fresh and addition to Sheffield's vibrant bar scene, Pad 12, has just opened its doors in the trendy Neepsend area, not far from Kelham Island. This new wine and gin bar is the latest venture from Enver and Kirstie Taskin, the couple behind the celebrated Enver's Turkish Grill, recently crowned Britain's top takeaway in the BBC show Britain's Top Takeaways. This time, the Taskins have teamed up with friends and fellow entrepreneurs Dan and Laura Hall to bring Pad 12 to life at Merchants Court on Mowbray Street.
Pad 12 promises a unique experience for wine and gin enthusiasts, with a thoughtfully curated selection of spirits, wines, and beers. According to Dan Hall, the bar's drink menu will feature an array of gins, vodkas, rums, and whiskies, with an emphasis on locally distilled spirits whenever possible. To complement the drinks, the bar will also serve a small food menu featuring cured meats and a limited daily offering of chicken wings, allowing guests to pair their drinks with flavourful bites.
Housed in one of Merchants Court's historic buildings, Pad 12 brings a touch of both heritage and modern style to the area. The name "Pad 12" was inspired by an inscription found on one of the building’s old bricks, a nod to the site's past as a fabrication and welding workshop. The venue's design respects this industrial heritage, showcasing exposed brick, steelwork, and timberwork, balanced with a sleek modern stone bar finished with striking red tiling.
The aim, according to Dan, is to create a "comfy, relaxed, chilled-out kind of atmosphere" where guests can unwind. With both indoor and outdoor seating, Pad 12 offers the flexibility to host intimate gatherings inside as well as enjoy the open-air courtyard. Plans are already underway for future summer events, including outdoor cinema nights and live music.
Located within Merchants Court, Pad 12 is part of an exciting collective of local businesses. The courtyard already hosts a beauty salon, a jeweller, and a mead brewery, with more businesses on the way, including a yoga and pilates studio with health-focused juices and shakes, a deli serving sandwiches and coffee, and a pizzeria. This blend of offerings is set to make Merchants Court a vibrant hub in Neepsend's evolving social scene.
Dan and Laura Hall, who own Steel and Stones Tattoo Studio in Handsworth, built a close relationship with Enver and Kirstie after frequent visits to Enver’s Turkish Grill. Their shared vision for a bar led to a partnership, turning a longtime dream into a reality. After searching for the perfect location, they found Merchants Court in early 2023 and set their plans into motion.
Pad 12 will be open Thursday to Sunday, with hours extending to 11:30pm on Thursdays, midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11pm on Sundays. For those looking for a unique event space, the bar will also be available for private hire.
Walkley Cottage Under New Management with Exciting Menu
Walkley Cottage, a popular local pub in the Sheffield suburb whose name it bears, has officially reopened under new management. Situated on Bole Hill Road, the pub welcomed back patrons on 21st September, following a brief closure. The new landlady, Sophie Bailey, has wasted no time in making her mark, launching a brand-new menu and introducing a fresh, inviting atmosphere to the venue.
At just 31 years old, Sophie Bailey, from Stannington, has taken on the challenge of reviving Walkley Cottage as part of her broader ambition to expand her pub portfolio. Bailey is no stranger to managing successful establishments. She took over The Clubhouse on London Road in 2022, followed by The Closed Shop in Crookesmoor in 2023. Now, with the Walkley Cottage joining her growing collection, Sophie hopes to continue acquiring a new pub each year.
"I'm a sucker for overworking myself, but it's what I love," she said, reflecting on her fast-paced journey. Despite the demanding workload, Sophie is clearly driven by her passion for transforming these spaces into thriving community hubs.
In just two weeks after receiving the keys, Sophie, with the help of her assistant manager Annabelle Young and her father, Martin Shirley, quickly redecorated the pub. The new look, combined with the addition of a pool table, aims to create a cosy, homely atmosphere. "We've redecorated, we've got a pool table, we're just bringing a bit more of a cosy, homely vibe," Sophie explained. The early response has been overwhelmingly positive, with customers enjoying the relaxed environment.
Although Bailey has exciting plans for the pub, such as introducing weekday offers and a specials board, she's taking a measured approach to ensure everything is done right. "You've got to walk before you can run," she said, emphasising the importance of steady progress.
The most significant change, however, is the launch of a brand-new food menu, which debuted on 1st October. Developed by Sophie alongside head chef Matt Wasnidge and executive head chef Ian Stockdale, the menu blends classic pub fare with customer favourites from The Closed Shop.
Diners can indulge in a variety of dishes, from small plates like nachos, grilled halloumi, and soup (three for £18) to heartier mains. The selection includes British staples such as fish and chips, pork belly, and pie, priced between £12 and £16. For those seeking something more upscale, steaks are available at £22. Families and smaller appetites are also catered to, with kid-friendly options like mini fish and chips, cheese and tomato pasta, and sausage and mash.
Although Walkley Cottage is just getting started under its new management, Sophie Bailey is optimistic about the pub's future. With more improvements and additions planned, the team is excited to build on the positive momentum.
"We're a very friendly team. Our food's lovely, our beer is lovely, and just come down and try it out," Sophie urged locals. The Walkley Cottage is also on the lookout for new staff, with positions open for duty managers and bar staff at both the Walkley Cottage and The Closed Shop.
For updates and hiring information, be sure to follow Walkley Cottage on their social media pages.
Poco Brings a Fresh Taste to Highfield
The trendy Highfield neighbourhood has welcomed a new addition to its vibrant food and drink scene. Poco, a chic new wine and cocktail bar, officially opened its doors on 14th June at the Stag Works on John Street, just off Bramall Lane. As the little sister to the well-known Piña in Neepsend, Poco is already creating a buzz among Sheffield's discerning bar-goers.
Poco is situated in the heart of Little Sheffield, an area that's rapidly gaining a reputation as one of the city's trendiest districts, alongside hotspots like Kelham Island and Neepsend. Nestled within Stag Works, Poco joins an eclectic mix of businesses, including Zephyr’s bar, the grass-roots music venue Lovely Rita's bakery, Mamnick fashion store, and Sophie Farrar ceramics. Owner Joe Cribley describes it as a "lovely community," reflecting the area's creative and welcoming atmosphere.
Unlike Piña, which is famous for its bustling atmosphere and mezcal- and tequila-infused cocktails, Poco offers a more intimate experience. "It's more of a sit-down cosy cocktail and wine bar, with table service," explains Cribley. "We're still very much inspired by Mexican and South American spirits and cocktails and want to elevate and showcase new drinks that we don't necessarily have chance to at Piña."
The focus on elevating the drinking experience is reflected in Poco's seasonal cocktail and wine menu, which aims to introduce guests to new and innovative drinks. With rotating selections, customers can always expect fresh flavours and exciting combinations to enjoy in a laid-back setting.
Poco also features a carefully curated menu of small plates, offering a delightful accompaniment to its wine and cocktail offerings. The small plates rotate with the seasons, keeping the menu fresh and in tune with the changing tastes of the city.
This combination of carefully crafted cocktails and vibrant small plates makes Poco a destination for those seeking a refined, yet relaxed, drinking and dining experience.
Poco builds on the foundation laid by its sister venue, Piña, which has been a huge hit since opening in 2018. Located in a former warehouse on Harvest Lane in Neepsend, Piña has made a name for itself by serving up authentic Mexican street food, including its now-famous tacos, alongside an impressive selection of tequilas and mezcals.
Piña's success has not gone unnoticed - BBC Good Food has listed it as one of the best places to eat in Sheffield, and it earned accolades on Channel 4's Come Dine With Me: The Professionals, where judges praised its "perfect" tacos. With Poco, Cribley hopes to replicate this winning formula by offering a fresh take on cocktails and small plates in a more intimate setting.
As Poco settles into its stylish home at Stag Works, it's clear that it will be a key player in Sheffield's blossoming bar scene. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a cocktail connoisseur, or just looking for a cosy spot to enjoy a night out, Poco promises to be a delightful addition to the Highfield neighbourhood.
If Piña's runaway success is anything to go by, Poco is set to become a must-visit destination in its own right, offering Sheffielders a sophisticated yet laid-back space to sip, snack, and socialise.
Norfolk Arms Set to Reopen After Sale to New Owner
The Norfolk Arms, at one time a popular pub in Grenoside, is set to reopen after being sold to a new owner. Local residents and community leaders have confirmed that the new buyer is now in possession of the pub and has plans to fully refurbish the site, which has been closed for approximately four years.
The sale, which has been verified by the former owners and the property agents Fleurets, marks the start of major restoration work at the pub. According to Michael Levery, a local councillor for West Ecclesfield and resident of Grenoside, the refurbishment will take about 12 months to complete. Levery expressed optimism about the reopening, stating, "I'm sure local residents will welcome the return of the Norfolk after it closed pre-COVID."
The Norfolk Arms has been a staple of the Grenoside community for generations. Built in the 19th century, the pub has undergone several extensions over the years but has remained a popular spot until its closure during the COVID-19 pandemic. The new owner's plans are in line with previously approved renovation proposals, which aim to bring the venue back to its former glory.
These plans include demolishing the existing rear conservatory, adding an extension at the back, and linking the pub with an adjacent outbuilding. The renovation is expected to modernise the space while preserving the pub's historic charm. A key focus of the project is to enhance the pub's offering by including a more comprehensive food menu, which was a prominent feature in the planning application approved by Sheffield City Council in 2023.
The council-approved renovation plans highlighted that these upgrades will help "re-establish [the pub's] popularity within the City" and improve its capacity to serve both indoor and outdoor customers. The Norfolk Arms will be able to host 165 guests inside and an additional 146 outdoors, thanks to its large garden and parking facilities.
The reopening of the Norfolk Arms is seen as a significant development for Grenoside and the surrounding areas. Many local residents have fond memories of the pub, which was well-regarded for its friendly atmosphere, lovely food, and community spirit. Online reviews prior to its closure praised it as a "fantastic" venue with "friendly staff," and the hope is that the pub will regain its former reputation.
Given its prime location on Penistone Road, a busy main road within a densely populated suburb, the Norfolk Arms has the potential to attract not only local residents but also visitors from across Sheffield. With ample parking, outdoor space, and a refurbished interior, the pub has the potential to become a popular destination once again.
The renovation of the Norfolk Arms represents more than just the reopening of a pub; it signals a revival of a key part of Grenoside's social fabric. After four long years, the community can look forward to welcoming back a local amenity that had once been a bustling hub of activity.
Temporary Closure of Grennel Mower Pub Pending Licensing Review
The Grennel Mower pub, located on Lowedges Road in Sheffield, has been temporarily closed amid an ongoing investigation and licensing review initiated by South Yorkshire Police. The closure is due to concerns raised by the police regarding the safety of the venue.
South Yorkshire Police filed for a licensing review on the grounds of several critical concerns, including the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the prevention of harm to children. According to a listing on Sheffield City Council's website, the police believe that the Grennel Mower poses a serious risk to the public if it continues to operate as a licensed venue under its current conditions.
The application for the review was submitted on 5th September. Public representations regarding the licensing review can be made in writing until 3rd October, and a decision is expected to be made during a meeting of the council's licensing sub-committee before the end of October.
The Grennel Mower is part of the Admiral Taverns pub group, which owns and manages pubs across the UK. In a statement issued on 16th September, Admiral Taverns confirmed the temporary closure of the pub, stating:
"We take great pride in ensuring all our pubs adhere to licensing policies and provide a friendly environment where everyone feels welcome. The pub is currently closed whilst we investigate this matter, and we will be working with the relevant authorities to ensure the appropriate measures are taken."
This statement reflects the pub group's commitment to working closely with local authorities to resolve any concerns and ensure the venue can safely reopen.
The temporary closure comes less than a year after the Grennel Mower underwent a significant £255,000 refurbishment. The renovation, completed in December 2023, included new flooring, furniture, and the addition of a games room, making it a more attractive destination for locals. However, the recent developments have put the pub's future into question as the outcome of the licensing review will determine when and under what conditions the venue can reopen.
While no further details have been provided by South Yorkshire Police, the licensing review process will allow local authorities to assess the situation thoroughly and decide on the necessary steps to ensure public safety. The temporary closure, although disruptive to the local community, demonstrates the commitment of both the police and the pub group to address safety issues before the venue can resume operations.
The pub will remain closed until the review is completed and a decision is made by Sheffield City Council's licensing sub-committee.
The Four Leaf Brings Bottomless Guinness Brunches to Sheffield
Sheffield's pub scene got a fresh infusion of Irish spirit with the opening of The Four Leaf, a new pub that promises to stand out from the crowd. Located on West Street Lane between Sheffield City Hall and West Street, The Four Leaf has launched an exclusive bottomless Guinness brunch offer. As the only pub in Sheffield to provide such a deal, it has quickly gained attention. For fans of the iconic Irish stout, the brunch promises a delightful experience: endless pours of the "black stuff" alongside a full range of other drinks, including spirits, wines, and beers. And, of course, there's an extensive food menu to accompany this lavish beverage selection.
With Sheffield's Irish pubs already having a strong presence, including long-standing favourites like Fagan's, The Grapes, and The Dog & Partridge, The Four Leaf sets itself apart by combining traditional Irish pub charm with modern touches.
While Sheffield boasts a number of Irish-themed venues, The Four Leaf offers a distinctive twist. Paul Kinsey, owner of the pub and managing director of Harewood Group, describes it as a "modern bar offering but with that Irish soul and the great atmosphere you expect from a traditional Irish pub."
The venue is not just about Guinness and Irish memorabilia - though the walls are filled with an array of trinkets celebrating Irish culture. There's also live entertainment every night of the week, ensuring that The Four Leaf is not only a place to eat and drink but also a lively hub for socialising. Whether you're in the mood for music or looking to catch a major sporting event on the big screens, there's always something happening.
The Four Leaf caters to a wide audience. For those looking to enjoy a more relaxed activity, two full-sized American pool tables offer hours of entertainment. If you're seeking something with a more traditional Irish flavour, the pub is the only place in Yorkshire to offer the game of Irish rings, a classic game similar to fairground hoopla.
The pub's versatile space also accommodates everything from small gatherings to large corporate parties. With a capacity of up to 140 people, The Four Leaf is ready to host events of any scale, providing a lively atmosphere for all occasions.
Alongside the bottomless brunch, The Four Leaf offers several other deals to attract visitors. Theatre-goers can enjoy pre- and post-show promotions, and there's a popular two-for-one offer on all draught beers every Friday from 4pm to 8pm, perfect for kicking off the weekend.
With a brand that blends high-quality cocktails and an elevated food menu with traditional Irish pub vibes, The Four Leaf aims to redefine what an Irish pub can be. As Paul Kinsey explains, the goal was not to create a stereotypical Irish pub, but rather a modern space with all the character of Dublin's best venues.
The Sheffield location is the second Four Leaf pub, with the first having opened earlier this year in Harrogate. With plans for further expansion, the brand aims to bring its unique blend of modern hospitality and Irish warmth to even more cities in the future.
Whether you're a fan of Guinness, Irish culture, or simply looking for a great place to unwind with friends, The Four Leaf is set to become a key player in Sheffield's nightlife. Combining the spirit of Ireland with a modern twist, it's a pub that promises good times and great memories, all in the heart of the city.
Hillsborough Tap's Hunt for Vandals as Window Damaged
The Hillsborough Tap, an independent pub in the suburb of the same name, has launched a search for the individual responsible for a senseless act of vandalism that caused £1,000 worth of damage. On 14th September, CCTV footage captured a man casually punching the pub's window, shattering it in seconds before walking away without pause.
The pub, located on Langsett Road in Hillsborough, is now appealing for help in identifying the culprit behind the costly incident. Owner Janine Lawson expressed her frustration, highlighting the challenges that small businesses already face without the added burden of unnecessary damage.
Footage from the pub's CCTV system shows the event unfolding at 12:30 a.m. on the quiet corner of Langsett Road and Holme Lane. The video reveals two men approaching from Bradfield Road, when, without warning, one of them punches the pub’s window, inflicting substantial damage. The man then continues walking as if nothing had happened.
"It only took them a few seconds to destroy my weekend and cost us up to £1,000," Janine explained. "You have to sell a lot of beer to cover the bill this will cause."
Initially, Janine refrained from releasing the CCTV footage, opting instead to post a request on The Hillsborough Tap's Facebook page for the person responsible to come forward and cover the cost of repairs. However, after receiving no response, she felt compelled to take further action. The footage has since been shared publicly, and the police have been contacted.
"At first, I just wanted whoever it was to come forward and pay for the damages. We've all done stupid things when we're drunk, and we don't have to get the police involved," Janine said. "But after some time, after no one came forward, I thought, 'you know what, they deserve for everyone to know they did this, and they're an idiot.'"
Although the damage is estimated to cost up to £1,000, Janine has found solace in the local community's support. Friends and neighbours have offered to help reduce the repair costs by supplying glass and assisting with the fix. However, the frustration and emotional toll remain.
"You do end up taking it personally," Janine admitted. "It's hard enough running a small business without something like this happening for no reason."
Despite the incident, the Hillsborough Tap remains open for business. The staff has even embraced a bit of humour, decorating the broken window with a drawing of Billy Bullseye, adding a touch of lightheartedness to an otherwise frustrating situation.
The pub hopes that with the release of the CCTV footage, someone will come forward with information about the vandal. Meanwhile, Janine and her team continue to serve their customers and keep the community spirit alive, despite the senseless act that disrupted their weekend.
If anyone has information about the incident, they are encouraged to contact the pub or the police.