Durham Uni slam students over Miners vs Thatcher event.

Durham University have slammed some of their students for a deplorable event that would have seen them dress as miners and mock the 1980's strikes.

An event was arranged by a rugby team which wanted to pit Thatcher’s Government against miners in a battle bigger than Orgreave as they put it.

East Durham Trust who provide a range of poverty interventions across the former Easington District have been quick to point out that they have enjoyed the support of staff and students of Durham University for many years and see the controversial plans of Trevelyan Rugby Club as not representing the University as a whole.

Outrage was voiced across Social Media platforms over the weekend when the college students encouraged participants to dress up in “filth and flat caps” and recreate the Battle of Orgreave. Since the weekend the University has stepped in to scrap the event in recognition of the insensitivity.

East Durham Trust CEO Malcolm Fallow said, “This was an extremely ill-conceived idea that showed just how out of touch some people are. However, it would be wrong to tar the whole University or indeed the single college with the same brush.

We have enjoyed support from the University in many guises over the years including significant donations of food for emergency parcels and our current appeal to establish a “People’s Takeaway” saw staff and students respond positively.

The Uni say they're going to speak to the students who planned the now cancelled event and may take further action against them.

Here's there full statement:

Owen Adams, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Colleges and Student Experience) at Durham University, said:

“Durham University and Trevelyan College utterly deplore this event which is wholly unacceptable.

“The event has been cancelled by the students concerned. We are speaking to those students and we are considering what further action to take in due course.

“Durham University is extremely proud of the positive contribution it makes to Durham City and North East England and our place in the rich heritage of this region.

“We know that most students are active and positive residents of their communities. For example, students undertook more than 14,000 hours of volunteering last year.

“We work closely with partners including Durham County Council, Durham Constabulary and local residents’ groups with the aim of ensuring there is a positive environment for all who live and work in Durham City.

“Regrettably, there are occasions where student behaviour falls short of the standards we expect. We have a very active education programme that explains our Code of Conduct for those living in the local community and aims to enhance students’ sense of belonging.

“This Code of Conduct highlights that the University reserves the right to take appropriate action against those who fall short of these standards.