I AM sick of the “hooray Henry” students from the Home Counties who continue to blame anyone but themselves for the tragic deaths in the River Wear over the past two years. They blame the lack of lighting and fences, and don't see why they should moderate their drinking. They need to give themselves a shake and grow up!

I have lived in Durham for quite a while. I don't feel the need to walk along the river banks late at night when there are much safer alternative routes.

I agree with the Chief Constable Mike Barton when he says that the river is not to blame, but I disagree with him when he says that cheap alcohol plays a part.

I have seen students in city centre shops. They don't buy cheap alcohol – they buy high priced premium brands.

Why should I pay increased council tax so Durham County Council can fund unnecessary safety measures to placate the rants of these upper-class drunken idiots?

If they have so little common sense, they should choose a university without a nearby river.

John Watson, Durham.