Students to hold festival on Meadows

THOUSANDS of students are set to take to the Meadows for a two-day festival.

The Scotcampus group, which holds an annual freshers' festival in Glasgow's George Square, has moved the event - described by organisers as a "big party" - across to the Capital following its success over the past four years.

But some residents have expressed worries about the levels of noise, littering and damage that could result during the festival, which is being staged next Thursday and Friday.

Today organisers assured members of the public that the event, which is expected to attract up to 15,000, had been well organised and would not disturb those living nearby.

Director Graeme Barratt said the festival, which will have business stalls, DJs and a food-eating contest, had been planned well in advance and that organisers were working with police and the council. He stressed that alcohol would not be served.

He said: "We are working with Edinburgh City Council, who are providing various services, and we have our own cleaning team to keep the grounds tidy. The event will also have heavy stewarding.

"It is a great opportunity for businesses to introduce themselves to the students, and they in turn can pick up lots of freebies and vouchers. It will be informative and not alcohol-fuelled.

"It made sense to bring the event across here because more and more Edinburgh students were travelling to Glasgow for the George Square one."

He added: "Although it is primarily aimed at students we're happy for other people to come along."

Companies attending the festival include Dominos Pizza, Pot Noodle, Yo! Sushi and Revolution Vodka Bar, plus there will be stalls representing several local pubs and clubs including Hawke and Hunter, Liquid Rooms and The Hive.

But a number of residents said they were concerned about another festival on the Meadows.

Local resident Lilly Hunter said: "The Meadows need a rest after the festival and all the BBQ people burning the grass. Can't the students use Holyrood Park?"

Another local, Mike Paul, said: "I'll be very surprised if it actually happens. They pulled the plug on the last festival scheduled to happen on the Meadows just a couple of days before. However, if it does happen I won't have too big a problem with it."

The city council said that organisers stated in their application to hold the event that 'no amplified music will be played', and that they would only have one small amplifier.

A spokeswoman said: "The Freshers Festival is a welcome event for new students. The aim is to provide information about the wide range of services available in the city."