Patrick's Day warning for Belfast students

University students in Belfast have been warned against repeating the drunken violence witnessed on St Patrick's Day last year.

The University of Ulster said action would be taken against students engaged in anti-social activities during this year's 17 March celebrations.

Queen's University is expected to send out a similar warning next week and the two universities have joined with the City Council and the police in drawing up ways of combating the problem.

Last year riot police were called to deal with drunken groups that thronged the streets of the Holy Land residential area of south Belfast.

A letter sent to students by the University of Ulster authorities warned of the consequences of unruly behaviour.

'As a University of Ulster student, you should be aware that you are a representative of the University both on and off campus, and carry with you the good name and reputation of the University,' the letter said.

'It is a regrettable fact that anti-social behaviour by some students has, in the past, tarnished the good name of the University and its student body. In particular, St Patrick's Day 2009 saw disgraceful scenes on the streets of south Belfast which resulted in criminal convictions for some students as well as disciplinary penalties for others.'

The letter added: 'We do not wish to see a repeat of those scenes this year, and will act swiftly against any of our students identified as bringing the University into disrepute through their behaviour.'

Students were further warned of their commitments under the charter overseeing conduct. It said: 'Anti-social behaviour may result in disciplinary action.'