A UNIVERSITY has promised to take action against drunken anti-social behaviour by students.

Durham University vice-chancellor and warden Stuart Corbridge has responded to complaints by the city's residents that the conduct of students has turned part of the city into a "no go area".

A letter to the university has highlighted "ongoing drinking and anti-social behaviour" by students on land next to Potters Bank, near the Durham University Observatory.

The letter says: "Local residents have described the behaviour of the students as being drunk, aggressive and intimidating.

"Those responsible have been identified as students from Durham University due to the university clothing worn by those involved."

The residents said the drinking is taking place during the daytime and at night and sent photographs of the mess left behind to the university.

The letter adds: "The area has been left littered with empty alcohol bottles and cans along with other litter.

The Northern Echo:

"There is broken glass in several locations which is a clear danger to local residents and dogs that are walked in the area. Fires are regularly lit causing damage.

"The area is becoming an no go area due to the unacceptable behaviour of those involved with local residents being left too frightened to walk in the area through fear of intimidation or being injured from the broken glass."

In response, Professor Corbridge promised to investigate, and added: "This is clearly unacceptable.

"Most Durham University students have departed the city for the summer, but the university will look into the matter and take action as appropriate.

"The city looks beautiful today and this is as it should be."