As sure as September rolls around each year so do tales of drunken student debauchery.
In St Andrews, it’s the annual Raisin Weekend shenanigans that often captures the headlines.
But now students at St Andrews University who want to distance themselves from the bad reputation of drinking are being given the chance to live in alcohol-free accommodation.
It has been introduced to cater for students with religious beliefs or medical conditions that do not allow drinking.
The move is thought to be the first time alcohol-free student accommodation has been offered in Scotland.
It will be offered at David Russell Apartments in Fife Park from September.
Students will be asked to tick a box on their accommodation forms giving them the option.
Pat Mathewson, of St Andrews Students’ Association, said: “Our residential services have decided they will offer a small section and then see what the uptake is like.”
A spokesperson for St Andrews University said: “We know that not all students drink alcohol.
“What’s more, we believe student learning lasts a lifetime, so reinforcing positive behaviours during this period of development can have a lasting influence.”
malexander@thecourier.co.uk