Welcome back to Durham and to the Union for Easter Term 2017!

Whether this is your final term in Durham before graduating or your first taste of summer in Durham, I hope the Union will be able to provide a welcome distraction from exams and revision.

In our debates, we will be addressing some hot topics, from equality to capitalism and what it means to be British. We will be joined by some interesting speakers, including Graham Brady MP, Vicky Pryce and Roger Helmer MEP.

I am delighted to be welcoming former Green Party leader Natalie Bennett and First Secretary Alexander Novikov from the Russian Embassy to Durham as part of our ongoing series of addresses from notable individuals.

And who can forget that there’s a General Election coming up? Hopefully the Union can be Durham’s Election HQ!

Our socials, undoubtedly the best in Durham, will continue this term, including the Garden Party on 14 June, the highlight of the Easter social calendar. The bar at 24 North Baily is open each evening (except during the exam period). We are the only society in Durham to have its own bar, so why not make the most of it?

This will also be a big term for competitive debating, as we host the Inter-Collegiate Cup, Robson Cup and Durham Open.

It is never too late to get involved in the Union, whether this means turning up to more events, joining a committee or taking part in competitive debating. Talk to one of the officers if you have any questions. Alternatively, the Union Office is open 9am-5pm on weekdays and you’ll be sure to have any problem sorted for you.

Jonty Bayliss
President, Easter Term 2017