DURHAM University students have staged a candlelit procession to highlight their call for better security.

The event, involving 50 students, ended on Prebends Bridge, a spot well used by students and notorious for attacks and muggings.

It was previously the focus of a year-long campaign by Durham Student Union, which last year succeeded in getting two brighter lights installed there.

Union education and welfare officer Charlie Salathiel said: "Our efforts last year were just the beginning.

"We must continue to lobby Durham City Council for more lighting on the bridge and for increased security measures.

"As residents in the city, we have the right to be able to use this vital route at night without fear for our own safety."

The union also used the procession to increase students' awareness of the dangers of walking alone over Prebends Bridge and on the riverbanks.

The police, union, and university all advise students to use other routes but,because it is such a convenient short-cut, many ignore the advice.

Miss Salathiel said: "Our message is clearly that safety is in numbers."

The procession was part of the union's Durham University Security Kampaign, which includes property marking, attack alarms and emergency service theme nights.