THIS is the startling sight confronting students who pop to the loo during freshers’ week at Essex University.

Bar bosses have installed life-like vinyl posters on the floor which appear to show sozzled scholars who have collapsed in the toilet cubicles.

Paid for by drinks giant Diaego Great Britain, the stunt is on trial at ten universities to underline the risks of binge drinking.

Diaego says it wants young people to enjoy its products in moderation.

Mark Baird, manager at Diageo, said: “We wanted to design a campaign to help students at Essex University have fun and be more responsible in freshers’ week.

“Our aim is to encourage them to think twice about their drinking in a fun and non-judgemental way.

“We hope the pilot becomes a talking point in the Students’ Union bar and that people have a better experience as a result.”