SCORES of Glasgow students have left the city to celebrate Christmas with their families.

Glasgow Caledonian University learners were given access to asymptomatic coronavirus testing ahead of the festive period.

“I cannot wait to have Christmas dinner with my family and friends," Master's student Nicole Mitchell said.

The multimedia journalism student will be returning to Nairn in the Highlands for the break and added: "I’m delighted the university has done all it can to make this happen for me and all the other students.”

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READ MORE: First look inside Glasgow Caledonian's student test site

A testing centre opened at the start of December to offer free tests to asymptomatic students from GCU, Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Glasgow Kelvin College and City of Glasgow College.

Nicole added: “The testing site has been very helpful. This is a very commendable initiative by the University and it makes me feel proud to be a student here. The testing centre really gives me peace of mind that I can be close to my family and not have to worry about infecting anyone.

“I’ve had a mix of face-to-face and online teaching this year. Even though online classes have been a challenge for everyone, our lecturers have really made the best out of the situation to the benefit of us all.”

Innes Mason, a first-year Accountancy student, is travelling to Inverness for the holidays.

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He said: “I’m looking forward to going home and seeing my family, friends and my girlfriend. GCU has been very helpful during this unprecedented time, especially with setting up the student testing centre at such short notice.”

Students are also invited to get tested upon their return in January.

However for those who will not be heading home over the Christmas period, the university's student association has organised a series of events to support them over the next three weeks.

The student support helpline also will be available to all students on or off campus.