University students have shared their excitement ahead of the opening of a Wetherspoons on campus.

The Sir Ronald Wates, the UK’s first university-owned Wetherspoons pub, is set to open on the University of Surrey’s campus in Guildford on Tuesday.

Cameron Corrigan, who is studying law at the university, says “it’s probably the best thing to ever happen to the university”, while paediatric nursing student Chloe Richardson said: “It’s great for uni students, we all struggle with money as well and it’s cheap.”

However, student Ben Cutting said he was against the new pub. “I know they’re very inclusive, but it just feels like: ‘Is this what we’ve settled for?'” he added.

The Wetherspoons model means that staffing, prices and licensing will be set by the University of Surrey, while the budget pub chain will provide guidance as the franchisor.

Corrigan said the new pub could have an impact on nightlife in Guildford but urged venues in the town to cut their prices to compete.

“They are far too expensive for anyone to actually go out and have a good night without staring at your bank account every two seconds,” he added.

“So this is a great alternative.”