We’re flipping into the Guinness Book of World Records!

More than 1,000 Sheffield residents including University staff, alumni, students and members of the local community came together at the Endcliffe Village halls of residence to flip their way into the Guinness World Records.

They were there as part of the Big Flip event, their challenge was to flip pancakes non-stop for 30 seconds and achieve a new world record for the city.

The University smashed the existing world record of 405 people flipping pancakes simultaneously which was set by Bram Zwiers in the Netherlands in 2008.

Benjamin Backhouse from Guinness World Records said: “I can officially confirm that the people of Sheffield smashed the world record for the most people flipping pancakes for 30 seconds and the new world record now stands at 890 people. It was an extraordinary sight to see so many people of all ages with a frying pan in hand flipping a pancake. Congratulations to everyone involved.”

Pat McGrath, Director of Accommodation and Commercial Services which organised the Big Flip, said: "It was fantastic to see so many people from across the city take part in our world record. What started out as a simple idea to help involve our international students in the quirky culture we have in this country, such as flipping pancakes on Shrove Tuesday, has resulted in a new world record and a wonderful day enjoyed by all. Here at the University we are proud to link our local traditions with the University’s global agenda, whilst also bringing people together for a fun day out. Well done to everyone involved.”

Flipping wasn’t the only entertainment at the event. The Big Flip also included a pancake race, a pancake party and a pancake eating competition, as well as free soup and scotch pancakes for everyone that took part. University of Sheffield alumnus and BBC Football Focus presenter Dan Walker kicked off proceedings alongside Professor Keith Burnett, the Vice-Chancellor.

Kay Limb, who works at the University of Sheffield came along with her children during half-term, she said: “We’re all pancaked out! We had an amazing time today, being part of a Guinness World Record is brilliant. We ate lots of pancakes and can’t wait for Pancake Day next week to put our tried and tested flipping skills to the test.”

RAG collected donations for three local charities throughout the event - Asperger’s Children and Carer’s Together (AACT), Project Buzz and Paces Sheffield – and the pans used in the Big Flip will be donated to St Vincent’s.