A MINI zoo, free drinks and goody bags are just some of the attractions on offer to welcome students to Sunderland.
On September 29 the city’s the Bridges is holding its annual Student Raid, a special, one night only shopping event for young people attending the city’s university or colleges.
And although hundreds of students have already signed up for the event, there’s still time for more to get their invitation to an evening which offers as much as 30 per cent discount in a range of shops.
This is the fifth time the Bridges has held the event, with students being able to enjoy free food and drink samples from Starbucks and Fosters Lager.
There will also be a range of limited edition goody bags given out to shoppers who buy from retailers including The Fragrance Shop, Thorntons and Blue Inc.
Handmade cosmetics company Lush will be repeating its annual offer which is always one of the most popular, with a free goody bag for anyone who spends more than £10.
The evening is open to new students and those already living in the city, with activities on the night including live DJ sets, competitions and a Discovery Zoo brought in by the city’s Business Improvement District.
In 2014 more than 8000 students attended the shopping evening, not only providing them with the opportunity to see what the city centre has to offer but also giving a huge boost to the local economy.
The event is free but anyone wanting to attend is advised to pre-register at thebridges-shopping.com/student.
“This is always a fantastic event,” said Andy Bradley, Centre Director at the Bridges.
“Our retailers always support the evening with great discounts and jam-packed goody bags and it’s a great way for the new students to discover their new home while grabbing a bargain or three.
“We look forward to welcoming both new and returning students to what will be a great night.”
For further information on all the activities taking place visit www.thebridges-shopping.com