THE University of Worcester's vice chancellor has spoken about the death of student Joel Richards, and says hearts are broken over the tragedy.

Professor David Green says 19 year-old Joel, who was killed in the terror attack in Tunisia, had a bright future ahead of him, and the reaction to his death from fellow students shows how popular he was.

A university sports t-shirt has been hung at the campus entrance, where flowers have also been left too.

Speaking exclusively to your Worcester News, he said: "There has been a lot of reaction on social media, which shows that he was a very popular student.

"The football shirt and the flowers at campus gates is a lovely tribute, and again shows how popular he was.

"He was constantly achieving grades A and B, and was on for a first class degree. He certainly had a bright future ahead of him.

"He was very well known at the university because he was a terrific person. Our hearts are broken today, and all our hearts go out to his family and friends, none more so than to his mother."

Joel, of Wednesbury, in the Black Country, had this year finished his second year as a student of physical education and sports coaching.

The vice chancellor says that although it is too early at the moment, the university does plan to hold future vigils or assemblies to bring people together, in memory of Joel.

Counselling support is also being provided by the university, and is available to anyone who requires the service.