Probe into 'Nazi' student ceremony

The University of Gloucestershire has confirmed that they are trying to trace the people in the footage, which shows a group of students being paraded around with carrier bags on their heads partially covering their faces.

A student in a Nazi officer uniform walks up and down the line while some of the group, who are drinking, are being sick. The group is then marched around the streets in file, holding on to one another.

The footage, which has no sound, lasts one minute and five seconds and the subjects are seemingly unaware they are being filmed.

It is believed the footage was taken during a sports club initiation at some point during the last university year but it has only come to light now after the university was handed a copy.

The university, which bans student initiation ceremonies on campus, said they do not know who the students are but that they will bring disciplinary action against those responsible when they have identified them.

Paul Drake, director of communications, said: "The university takes the issue of intimidation and bullying extremely seriously. Initiation ceremonies are banned by the university.

"Disciplinary action may be brought against those who are found to be leading initiation ceremonies and who continue to perpetuate unacceptable intimidatory and coercive practices, in line with the university's Student Charter.

"The university devotes considerable resource in supporting students and in creating a positive environment so that all students succeed in their chosen area of study.

"This particular incident illustrates that we have more to do to eliminate poor student behaviour. It should be remembered however that this represents a small minority and the vast majority of students are both committed to their studies and represent the university well."