MORE than 100 people gathered at the University of Worcester today, to mourn the loss of one of its students who "lit up every room with his smile."

Staff and pupils attended a special remembrance service at the university's St John's campus in memory of Joel Richards, who was killed in the Tunisia terror attack at the young age of just 19.

During the service, led by the university's vice chancellor, the sound of tears being shed was a sad, but touching, sign of just how many lives the talented referee and footballer had enriched during his time in Worcester.

Candles were lit in his memory as his fellow students and friends embraced to hear the duration of the speeches which were given in tribute to the second year student, who had aspirations of becoming a physical education (PE) teacher.

Speaking at the service, Professor David Green, vice chancellor, said: "Colleagues and students, we are here today to remember our student Joel, and the members of his family who died in the terrible attack in Tunisia, along with the many others who lost their lives too.

"This loss has had a deep impact on many people throughout the university, and everyone who knew Joel."

After his speech, a minute's silence was held.

Chaplin of the university, Reverend Fiona Haworth, then gave a prayer. Poignantly, two birds flew low overhead during the prayer.

Professor Green then addressed the crowd again, saying: "We must do all we can to stay strong for each other and support all those who have been affected by this tragic loss of life, cut all too short in tragic circumstances.

"He (Joel) had so much to live for. We have lost one of our best students.

"I will always remember Joel, even though evil has taken him away from us.

"I am truly humbled by my colleagues who have done everything they can to help our community of students stay as strong as it can during this terrible time."

Head of institute for sports and exercise science, Mike Donovan, then paid his respects, saying Joel always tried to help whoever he could.

Mr Donovan said: "He (Joel) lit up every room with his smile.

"His aspiration was to become a PE teacher, and he would have become a truly inspirational teacher, I'm sure.

"He was a level two football coach, and was a good player himself too.

"He always wanted to help others, however he could. We need to support each other in the coming months."

A minute's applause then went ahead, again to pay tribute to Joel.

Finally, Professor Green led the bereaved crowd to the campus' Malvern Gate, where he laid a wreath at the entrance.

Staff and his peers then laid their own tributes and flowers at the gate, for Joel.

Joel, of Wednesbury, in the Black Country, was killed during the terrorist attack on Friday, which also claimed the lives of his uncle and grandad.

More than 30 British people were killed in the attack.