LET'S face it, the student scene in York is an odd affair.

Another city steeped in such international renown would have an ancient seat of learning with illustrious alumni, and indeed some sort of reliance on a student population.

York however, eluded any of that, waiting until the 1960s before openly allowing the nation's corduroy wearers to feel at home within the city walls.

Needless to say, this led to a standing start towards student activity - but as both universities in the city have proved, a late start doesn't have to equate to a lack of achievement.

This is an exciting time to be a student in York, things are starting to happen - be happy!

Just recently it has emerged that bars such as The Lowther are looking to continue the success of later opening times on weekends by adding this policy during the week. As winter draws in, a watering hole away from the bright lights and bustle of the night-clubs, could seem very appealing indeed.

Now, to those who bemoan York's lack of big name music acts, I say one thing: go to Leeds, or get into Eighties AOR. To those willing to search out York's finer gems, however, look forward to rewards aplenty.

One such gem is comedy.

Last weekend saw the mighty Ross Noble returning to York's Grand Opera House, while Edinburgh Fringe favourites The Reduced Shakespeare Company will descend upon the same venue this weekend.

But it is The Other Side Comedy Club that has provided a focal point for comic talent in York. Will Smith headlines on Sunday, bringing his intelligent brand of satire to a stage near you. Smith adopts the persona of the archetypal toff in his show, and does so with such dangerous accuracy that he is simply a very funny man.

The Other Side has even spread its wings to provide York University campus with quality acts throughout this term. Regular happy audiences at student prices are proving that sex, drugs and rock'n'roll (well, pop 'n' cheese for the new generation I guess) is not what it's all about. Well, not quite.

Updated: 10:33 Friday, November 28, 2003