Bristol University goes into lockdown with 300 students confined to halls

Bristol University has ordered 300 students to self-isolate in their flats after a flurry of 40 coronavirus cases at one hall of residence. 

Everyone living in The Courtrooms accommodation must ‘only socialise with those in their living circle from this afternoon’.

The University said it was a precautionary step but warned students it would take disciplinary action such as handing down fines if the rules were breached. 

Covid-19 outbreaks have swept 91 campuses across the country since students went back to university last month. 

Bristol revealed that 254 of its students and three of its staff have tested positive. All three staff have been working from home and have not been on campus. 

All residents at The Courtrooms accommodation block must ‘only socialise with those in their living circle from this afternoon’

More than 5,000 students have now tested positive, including big clusters in the North such as Newcastle, Northumbria and Manchester. 

Professor Sarah Purdy, pro vice-chancellor for student experience at Bristol said: ‘Having reassessed case numbers with colleagues from the Public Health Team today, we have decided that further measures are appropriate at this stage.’ 

She added that food, supplies and clean laundry will be delivered straight to their door.

The students in self-isolation will continue with their studies online ‘if they’re well enough’.    

Covid-19 outbreaks have swept 91 campuses across the country since students went back to university last month (Sheffield pictured)

Prof Purdy added: ‘We will do everything we can to support the students at The Courtrooms. 

‘If everyone follows the rules, we hope that this situation will pass, and things can return to relative normality as quickly as possible.

‘We have reminded all students that it is vitally important to observe self-isolation requirements in line with both the law and our acceptable behaviour policy. 

‘If necessary, the University will take action to ensure students are following this guidance.’

In the biggest outbreak yet, it emerged yesterday that 1,000 students are infected at Newcastle University. 

Several institutions have begun fining students for throwing parties or failing to self-isolate. Pictured, the University of Sheffield

That came on top of the 770 positive tests among students at neighbouring Northumbria University which was announced last Friday. 

Universities grappling with policing self-isolation among restless students have started doling out fines for breaches.

Aberdeen has reportedly handed out £125 penalties, Manchester £50 and students at Northumbria can be slapped with up to a £500 fine.   

Hall windows in some university cities have been plastered with wry ‘cries for help’ and pleas for people to send supplies.