There goes the neighbourhood

It is fair to say that most academics are keen to keep a distance between themselves and their students. Aside from the prospect of being spotted on the street by their tormentors, there is now an even more compelling reason to avoid living near students.

A survey from estate agents' website propertyfinder.com reveals that students are second only to squatters in the "neighbours from hell" league of shame. Being located next to students can chop 10 per cent off the value of property. Propertyfinder says problems include "rat-attracting rubbish overspills and headaches caused by loud music".