Beer, sausage rolls and virtual reality are just some of the treats on offer at a welcome event being organised for students in Jesmond this week.

Organised by Jesmond Library on St George’s Terrace and Newcastle University’s Go Volunteer scheme, the idea of Wednesday (November 8th) evening’s event is to introduce students to the various voluntary and community groups in Jesmond that are not only looking for volunteers but also offering activities and events for students to enjoy.

Mike Duckett, a project worker for Newcastle University Student Union (NUSU),  says: “There will be stalls of beer produced by students, baked goods, sausage rolls, the launch of a virtual reality head set project and we’ll have a good time.”

Relations between students and residents in Jesmond aren’t always harmonious, but Jesmond Library trustee Sarah Mercer says the library is keen to welcome students to Jesmond. “We are always in need of new volunteers since the library here is run and funded solely by the efforts of its volunteers and others.”

One of those volunteers, 18-year-old Jennifer Burn, has been working at the library for the last two and a half years. “It’s a nice place with amazing people.” Newcastle University postgraduate student Anna Garrard, another volunteer at the library, says she has “loved every minute of working with Jesmond Library. All the volunteers are so lovely and welcoming. This experience has really enhanced my project management and marketing skills.”

Wednesday evening’s event, which runs from 5pm to 8pm, is free.

Courtesy Ben Baily/Supplied by Jesmond Library