Students 'victims of hate'

Students have been advised how to protect property

The National Union of Students (NUS) is warning members in Plymouth that they could become victims of crime.

Police officers have been on campus at Plymouth University, issuing advice to students.

The NUS says one in three become victims of crime.

The union and police say the problem of hate attacks is not as bad in Plymouth as some university towns.

But with student numbers increasing, there are fears the problem could escalate.

Badly injured

James Harvey, NUS communications officer in Plymouth, said: "There have been instances of student hate crime.

"Students have been assaulted and verbally assaulted simply because of their position - that they have chosen to come to university and study."

One student, who did not wish to be named, said: "I have been hassled by local people

"We were walking down Union Street and we got set upon by a gang.

"My friend got punched in the face and was very badly injured."

Students are also being warned about securing their property in their digs.

Mr Harvey said: "Thieves know you have an above average collection of audio equipment, TVs and videos, so when they go out thieves know those houses are easy targets to make a few quid."