MORE than 150 students took part in a rally yesterday to protest about rent increases.

Earlier this year, the Durham University approved a £270 rise for undergraduates next year and further increases are expected during the following four years.

Managers say the extra money is needed to maintain and improve accommodation but Durham Students' Union (DSU) opposes the increase. Members believe it will make the university less attractive to new students, particularly those on lower incomes.

The rally, on Palace Green, outside Durham Cathedral, was the latest in a series of protests, including a sleep-out outside the vice-chancellor's house in May.

DSU president Eddie Moore said: "Communication has been very poor and we haven't been able to make effective representation to senior managers. We want to make sure for next year we are in a really strong position to oppose any further increases."

Dr John Hogan, university registrar, said: "The increase was approved by the council, which includes student representatives. They did not agree with the increase, but they were consulted about it."

He added: "We cannot let our accommodation run down to a state where students won't want to live in it."