Queen's University Belfast will continue its free late-night shuttle service for students as the new academic year begins. The Get Home Safe service, operated by SOS Bus NI, will run on Tuesdays and Thursdays from midnight to 2am, starting Tuesday 22 September.

The shuttle will collect passengers from outside The Kremlin and The Limelight in Belfast city centre. Students with a valid Queen's student card will be taken to a drop-off point in the Holyland area.

Queen's President and Vice Chancellor Professor Sir Ian Greer said the university was pleased to extend the initiative to new and returning students. He said experiencing Belfast's nightlife is a major part of the student journey and the free service provides peace of mind about getting home.

Micky Murray, Chief Executive at SOS Bus NI, said the organisation was delighted to partner with Queen's again to improve student safety. He said SOS Bus NI has been keeping people safe during the night-time economy since 2006 and will mark its 20th anniversary in October.

The Drink Check initiative, delivered with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, is also expanding. An additional 37 venues are joining, bringing the total to 70 participating venues.

The university said further details and support for both initiatives are available on its website.