A STUDENT guide has praised Huddersfield and its university.

The guide, from the Virgin group, is among services, products and information offered on the company's student site, www.virginstudent.com

It comments on university facilities, the social scene in towns and cities, accommodation and the surrounding area.

It concluded that Huddersfield University was small, but full of attractions and good courses.

It added: "You'll always find a friendly welcome and plenty of people who love being here."

Under the social life section, details were given about the university's clubs and societies, along with information about the Student Union.

It said: "Like everything else at Huddersfield University, the Student Union is small. But that isn't to say it has nothing to offer. There are plenty of things to keep the student population occupied."

Discussing the Huddersfield area, the site said: "At first glance, Huddersfield may not seem like the most impressive place to go to university. But dig a little deeper and the largest town in England has a lot to offer its student body."

The student nightlife in Huddersfield was praised, as was the array of shops and services that offer student discount.

Even the student accommodation got a thumbs-up.

The website also has a quick search function full of facts, such as which university has the cheapest accommodation or best nightlife.

Huddersfield was listed as the university with the cheapest drinks, with the average price of a pint being quoted as £1.

Phil Williams, the university's Press officer, said:

"The accuracy of facts and figures may not be 100%, but the overall impression it gives of us is pretty good."

Mr Williams added that alternative facilities were being built for students who do not like drinking - such as some Muslims - at the new Student Union building. This is being created on the Queensgate campus.