Every student at the university has been sent a personal letter warning them that incidents like one in Broomhill which saw a car covered in rubbish are not acceptable.

Students are reminded by Professor Keith Burnett that as members of the university they are committed to behave with consideration to the local community, keeping noise down and respecting people and property.

Professor Burnett warns that breaches will be pursued under university disciplinary procedures, in addition to any police action – and adds that alcohol will not be seen as an excuse.

"Many students live in residential areas which are also home to families and older people. Anti-social behaviour of any kind by the minority is deeply disturbing to permanent residents as well as other students," he adds.

The letter was sent out to all the university's 20,000 students with the support of the student union.

"We are deeply aware that the behaviour of the minority is deeply damaging and for the offence caused I apologise," said university pro-vice-chancellor for external affairs, Professor Dominic Shellard.

Posters had also been circulated for use by students, landlords and residents, Professor Shellard said.

Landlords of properties containing students have also been warned if their tenants do not behave they will removed from official university registration.

The city council is also being urged by the university to take tougher action against landlords who are breaching the law, while 11 extra staff have been recruited to the university security team.

Professor Shellard said he had been paying spot visits to households in affected neighbourhoods to smooth relations with residents.

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