Indeed, it has recently opened the door for people outside of the University of Durham to contribute as it aims to diversify the scope of opinion it carries.

The aim of d21 is to combine all the recognisable features of a print newspaper, such as the latest news, views, music, arts and reviews, whilst also exploiting the internet medium to bring such things as a virtual tour of Durham, webcasting of Durham's student radio station Purple, a fully searchable listings system, web polls and an interactive comments system.

In 2003 the site was labelled by judges "the complete package" and has since been praised for its "clear and consistent navigation, enjoyable and timely features."

Donald Macintyre, chief political commentator from The Independent remarked that d21 "explored the unique possibilities of the web, rather than simply 'hosting' their union's newspaper or magazine."

When d21's Laura Swinton won the best Student Critic Award in 2006, the judge commented that she "displayed a fluent, confident and witty style that made her work really stand out."