DURHAM is bracing itself for an influx of students when the university's freshers arrive in the city on Sunday.

More than 3,000 extra cars are expected on the city's roads as parents drop-off the first-year students.

A series of events has been planned to celebrate the new arrivals, beginning with a Freshers' Fair, in Dunelm House, on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Other events include live music, karaoke, and a more sedate jazz caf to help students wind down.

On Wednesday, October 11, 2000 students will travel by coach to the Federation Brewery, Dunston, for the Freshers' Ball.

Attractions include dodgems, remote-control car racing, a casino and a steel band.