One of the most popular nights on the Sunderland calendar will return this month as both old and new students are welcomed to the city in real style.

The Bridges’ annual Student Raid is always massively popular, with thousands of people turning up to enjoy the entertainment, giveaways and the opportunity to bag some bargains.

And this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with huge discounts, live performances and a festival vibe.

The event is being held in the centre on Monday 25 September from 6pm to 9pm, with most of the centre’s retailers taking part – some offering discounts of up to 30 per cent.

H Samuel, River Island, Schuh, Clarks, Clinton Cards, The Perfume Shop, Select, The Fashion Bible and Be More Geek are all offering 20 per cent discount on the night, as are The Body Shop – which will also be handing out a free gift to anyone who spends more than £30 – and H & M with a spend of £30 or more.

New Look will also be offering 20 per cent discount with a spin and win game, while Claire’s Accessories will be giving a whopping 30 per cent discount on the night.

Pandora, Ann Summers, Hotel Chocolat, Trespass, Batched and Caffe Nero will be giving a 15 per cent discount, with further offers at Superdrug, HMV, Phone Trader and Leading Labels.

Lush will be handing out a free gift on every spend over £20 as well as dishing out samples during the evening, with Holland and Barret, Greggs Café and Dawson and Sanderson also supporting the event.

The event is free to attend but anyone wanting to go along will need to register in advance at Student Raid Registration – The Bridges Shopping Centre, Sunderland (thebridges-shopping.com)

Centre Director, Karen Eve, is looking forward to welcoming newcomers to the city into the Bridges and also seeing returning students taking part.

“The Student Raid is a fantastic opportunity to introduce both college and university students into the city centre and lets them discover what we have to offer,” she said.

“It’s always a great night and as well as some amazing discounts, there’ll be competitions, giveaways and some brilliant entertainment.

“It’s the perfect opportunity for students to buy all of their essentials at some real bargain prices or even start some early Christmas shopping.

“We are delighted that our retailers have really got behind the event once again and we know it’s going to be a fantastic night for everyone.”