Police today issued a warning over the arrival of the student event Carnage UK in Oxford in Thursday.

Police said in recent weeks the event had attracted a 'great deal of negative media coverage' following events in Sheffield, where one student participating in the night’s activities was caught desecrating a war memorial in the town.

Insp Matt Bullivant said: “The Carnage UK tour has previously visited the city on other occasions and the nights have passed off without any significant incidents occurring.

“This is thanks to the robust policing tactics employed in the city centre by Thames Valley Police as part of the on-going Operation Nightsafe initiative, and the close working relationship the force has with partnership agencies and licensees in the town.

“I also feel there is a greater understanding among Oxford’s student body of the potential ramifications of their actions should they become embroiled in any incidents similar to those we have seen in Sheffield in recent weeks.

“Thames Valley Police will not tolerate any anti-social behaviour or drunken disorder, and I would urge those students taking part in this event to ensure that they behave in a sensible manner and stay out of trouble.

“Oxford is a great city and we do not want to see anyone’s evening out being spoilt by the mindless behaviour of a few people.”