Freebies, exclusive offers and one-day-only discounts – Metrocentre’s Big Student Shop, the largest event of its kind in the North East, returns this month, bringing the region’s freshers and students over 100 different ways to bag a bargain as the new academic year gets underway.

Taking place on Thursday, 24 September, from 4pm until 9pm, participating retailers throughout the centre will be offering student-only savings on everything from autumn wardrobe essentials and must-have accessories and beauty, grooming and wellbeing to food, drink and leisure too.

In addition to the discounts available in-store, Town Square will play host to pop-ups from big brands and indie labels alike, featuring new lines, products and giveaways from the likes of Schuh, The Perfume Shop, Life’s a Witch, Café Filto, Nando’s and Yo! Sushi. Not forgetting the chance to give bracelet-making a go with Sostrene Grene.

In nearby Exhibition Square, it’s all to play for with Mega Beer Pong and a Human Fruit Machine. Amongst the many prizes up for grabs are milkshakes from Five Guys, day passes for Everlast Gyms, £100 off at Suit Direct, a year’s supply of Millie’s Cookies, gift cards for Greggs and other retailers, plus collectible Pokémon cards courtesy of Aqua TCG.

Also out in force in Exhibition Square will be the teams from Namco Funscape, Treetop Golf and Newcastle Red Bulls rugby, with the chance to win free tickets and money off.

Providing the tunes throughout the event, will be live sets from some of the region’s club DJs as they take up residence in Red Mall, Green Mall, Town Square and Exhibition Square. And for those looking for a quick snack between pit-stops how about grabbing a free popcorn.

When it’s time for something more substantial, many of the centre’s favourite food and drink hangouts will be dishing up some great-value deals of their own. Everyone from Maki & Ramen, Nando’s, Frankie & Benny’s and Pizza Express, to Grounded Kitchen, Thaikhun, Tomahawk Steakhouse, Wingstop, Yo! Sushi and Yowza. Plus, Snowflake Gelato with their moreish sweet treats.

Metrocentre Marketing Manager Helen Atkinson said: ‘Without doubt, the Big Student Shop is one of the highlights on Metrocentre’s events calendar, offering freshers and continuing students alike all manner of ways to pick up a bargain, helping get the new academic year off to the best possible start.

‘Whether it’s serious savings on big brand fashion, free giveaways, money off eating out, or simply a fun night with your student pals, Metrocentre’s Big Student Shop has you covered.’

To unlock the many different offers, students can register now for their Big Student Shop wristband by clicking here. There’s also the option to register in-mall on the night with proof of student ID.

Every student to register will be entered into a free prize draw for the chance to win a Metrocentre gift card pre-loaded with £500 to spend in-mall.