INTERNATIONAL students at Durham University who remain behind this Christmas are being given a chance to celebrate in grand surroundings.

The university, which caters for students from more than 150 countries, is giving 200 of them a unique taste of Christmas celebrations with a lunch on December 25 in the Great Hall at Durham Castle.

Ricky Cohen, Deputy Director of Catering, said: "Some of our students are unable to go home during the Christmas vacation for various reasons. The Christmas Day lunch at Durham Castle offers students a unique experience. It is also an opportunity for people from different cultures to experience Christmas festivities."

The special lunch was first tried out last year and proved a resounding success - complete with no fewer than 15 'Santas' serving the Christmas pudding, followed by traditional party games, including pass the parcel.

Professor Graham Towl, Pro Vice Chancellor and Deputy Warden at Durham University, said he had thoroughly enjoyed last year's event.

"Durham University is probably the only one in the world to offer Christmas Day lunch and festivities in the Great Hall of a Norman Castle," he added. "It is a pleasure to join our international students for this day of festivities."

This year's event will begin with a drinks reception for guests in the Tunstall Gallery, before they embark on a guided tour of the hilltop Norman castle, which has been home to University College, Durham, since 1840.

Lunch will be served in the vast Great Hall, accompanied by Durham Cathedral Choral Scholars. The banquet menu will include: Ceviche of salmon, roast turkey breast with home-made stuffing and bacon rolls and traditional Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Tickets for the non-profit making event are now sold out.