THE Universities Minister has issued a plea for university students to "do their bit" on their return to education by following coronavirus guidelines.

It follows a warning from a leading Bradford professor that, if students are not careful, a "three way traffic system" of coronavirus could occur between the district, Leeds and Huddersfield.

Read more: How Leeds, Bradford and Huddersfield can prevent university virus spread

MP Michelle Donelan said: “This is a challenging time for us all, and I recognise that some residents in university towns and cities such as Bradford, may feel nervous ahead of the start of the academic term.

“But I want to reassure the people of Bradford that every effort is being made by the Government and universities to ensure that students return to campus as safely and sensibly as possible.

“We have already seen a mammoth effort from universities with a host of protective measures being put in place, such as limiting travel into campus, staggering class times over extended days, and reinforcing hand hygiene, to keep students and local residents as safe as we can during this time.

“But I have been clear that health advice only works if we all follow it and I am urging students, just like the wider public, to do their bit and act responsibly. I have faith in students that they will follow the guidance and by doing so protect their family, friends and local communities, and ensure campuses can remain open.”