We asked locals what they really think of us

It’s a universally acknowledged truth the divide between town and gown in Durham is the North East’s answer to Israel-Palestine.

With a new contingent of freshers already descended on Durham we went out and had a chat with some locals about what they really think of us.

Some of their opinions on us may come as a slap in the face.

Naw, thanks Sarah

Name: Sarah
Age: 46
Occupation: School administrator
She said: “It’s great! Good for local business.”

As a thermal insulation engineer you’d think things couldn’t get more lively

Name: Edwin
Age: 56
Occupation: Thermal insulation engineer
He said: “Students liven the place up – they make Durham more colourful.”

Charming

Name: Jaque
Age: 24
Occupation: Insurance industry
He said: “On a positive, students are good for the local economy. Durham would be a dead end without them BUT they live in a bubble.

“They go about their business and don’t bother interacting with the locals. I’ve been called ‘stupid commoner’, ‘chav’, and it’s at that point I put my pint down.

“Fact: I got fired from Subway for putting a sign in the window saying, ‘No Freshers’.

“To sum up, they’re thick headed, trust fund, scrotes.

Not that there’s much choice…

Name: Chloe Lawton
Age: 18
Occupation: Busker
She said: “I like them being around!”

Name: Chris Lawson
Age: 59
Occupation: Therapy assistant

She said: “By and large, students are fine. Unruly after a bit of alcohol, but we were all young once.

“I think that they should treat the general area with respect, as they would themselves expect to be treated.

Name: Ronda Wilson
Age: 50
Occupation: Designer
She said: “They’re really good and bring lots to the city.”

Name: Craig Devon
Age: 25
Occupation: Rigger
She said: “Students can all be OK (sometimes).”

Name: Peter Ferries
Age: 59
Occupation: Retired
He said: “I’ve got mixed views. Students make the place more vibrant and lively. Durham’s much quieter without them.

“Also the uni is great for the local economy. However, it can sometimes feel like there are a few too many students. They’re literally everywhere!