Thousands of Sunderland students hit the shops at The Bridges for annual Student Raid night

Students picking up bargains in Lush during the student raid shopping event held in The Bridges shopping centre. Picture by FRANK REID

More than 7,000 flocked to Sunderland’s main retail outlet as part of the annual Student Raid.

A host of top stores got behind the event, offering special discounts for the occasion.

Nikola Turas (16) with her Mum Aleksandra looking for a bargain during the student raid shopping event held in The Bridges shopping centre. Picture by FRANK REID

Goody bags, freebies and competitions were also on offer during Monday night’s event.

Samantha Czwordon-Auld, marketing manager at the Bridges said: ”We had an amazing night at the Bridges’Student Raid, with more than 7000 students turning up to shop and take advantage of a range of fantastic discounts and giveaways.

“There was a great buzz throughout the whole evening and we are absolutely delighted that it was such a great success.”

Andy Bradley, centre director at the Bridges said: “It’s a great way for new students to get a bit more familiar with the city and for returning students to grab a bargain for the new academic year.”

Stores offering students 20 per cent off items on the night included The Disney Store, Topshop, Kurt Geiger, Hotel Chocolat, New look and Waterstones.