A NEW campaign has been launched to encourage students to drink responsibly in the run-up to Christmas.

Starting last week, students at 53 universities are being sent beer mats, messages on pint glasses and stickers when they go to a student bar, advising them to drink sensibly.

The What's In It? campaign was set up by the National Union of Student Services, the universities' student unions and drinks company Diaego.

It aims to advise students not to drink on an empty stomach or to consider substituting a pint for a soft drink.

Home office minister, Paul Goggins, offered his support to the campaign. He said: "The Government does not want to stop young people enjoying a few drinks but it is important for everyone to drink responsibly. The consequences of misusing alcohol could lead to illness and disorderly or illegal behaviour."