ST Martin's College students are saying 'Sshh' as they launch a new campaign aiming to keep the noise down for local residents.

As Christmas looms, parties and celebrations take off for students and the public alike.

But the 'Silent Students, Happy Homes' (SSHH) campaign is a commitment to encourage students to keep quiet when walking through residential areas.

In conjunction with the campaign, a telephone helpline (07866-966644) has been set up to enable residents to voice their concerns over late night noise.

Students' Union president Hayley Mills says: "This is the biggest campaign we have launched in support of residents. We hope it will alleviate noise problems seen in previous years.

"We are encouraging students and others to be quiet while returning home from town after nights out and reminding students living in halls of residence to keep noise to a minimum once home."

The campaign is about showing respect for others and Hayley adds: "While we encourage our students to get involved with our lively entertainment programmes, we do ask them to observe the fact that we are based in a residential area and locals do not wish to be disturbed at all hours."