POLICE are mounting a concerted drive to ensure the safety of students as thousands prepare to converge on Durham City for freshers’ week.

The campaign follows the recent deaths of two Durham University students, who fell into the River Wear and drowned after nights out drinking.

Sope Peters, 20, an economics student, went missing on October 29 last year, while Luke Pearce, 19, an engineering student, drowned on May 11.

Inspector Colin Dobson, head of Durham Police’s alcohol harm reduction unit said: “Freshers’ week is one of those times of the year when there is excessive alcohol consumption and we are working to reduce the harm.

“The purpose is to promote a safe environment for the new students to really have a good time and to enjoy Durham City.

“But we are so aware that alcohol led to the death or two students last year and we really want to recognise the vulnerability the students put themselves in and do something positive about it.”

“We have been working really closely with the university, individuals from the colleges and Durham Student Union concerning freshers’ week.”

Insp Dobson added bosses in the popular Walkergate part of the city had agreed to hire an event management company to keep the area, where students congregate, safer.

“That will free up police time to patrol the wider area where we think people could be vulnerable, particularly down at the river banks and back streets,” he said.

Professor Graham Towl, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Deputy Warden at Durham University said: “The recent tragic incidents have reinforced our drive to communicate clearly with students regarding their safety and wellbeing.

“We are doing this in partnership with Durham Constabulary, Durham County Council and Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service.

“During Induction Week, we have arranged for representatives from Durham Constabulary to give presentations to our students on the dangers of alcohol, providing advice on how many units are in different types of drinks and guidance on safe drinking. They will also advise students about staying safe on nights out.

"The police have a robust plan in place to help ensure safety which complements the activities we run.

“The University’s Students’ Union and our colleges run sensible drinking campaigns and raise awareness about student safety around the city.

“In addition, a number of our colleges offer free soft drinks throughout Induction Week and run engaging welcome events and activities that are not focussed on alcohol."