A PILOT project to deter students from drinking excessive amounts of alcohol is working well, an MP has said.

The University of Brighton was the first institution in the country to test out new ways of encouraging responsible drinking.

Crime prevention minister Norman Baker visited the campus yesterday to see the progress so far.

The National Union of Students-led initiative, which has been backed by the Home Office, offers other forms of entertainment, which do not involve drinking.

The Lewes MP said: “I’m really pleased this project is off the ground and it is already proving successful.

“It’s great to see people taking part in the activities.

I was told some people came to a pancake-making class dressed to go clubbing, but instead they just ended up staying, eating pancakes, because they were having so much fun.”

It is hoped the scheme will stop unruly students disrupting neighbours with noise and antisocial behaviour after a heavy night on the town.

Mr Baker added that it could help crack down on peer pressure encouraging students to drink more.

He said: “It’s a chance to help students learn they are part of a community with neighbours.”