Festival of sport held in memory of drowned teen

Tome Jones died in September 2018

A sports festival is to be held in memory of a university student who died in the River Severn in Worcester.

Thomas Jones disappeared nine days before his body was recovered from the water in September 2018.

His parents have organised The Tom Jones Festival Of Sport at Droitwich Leisure Centre, with proceeds raising money for West Mercia Search and Rescue (WMSR) which was part of the search team.

Hundreds of children are expected to take part in a 48-team football tournament as part of the festival which is taking place on Sunday.

Earlier this year, Mr Jones's mother Vicky, and Rick Leach from West Mercia Search and Rescue, spoke to BBC Hereford and Worcester about the festival

An inquest into Mr Jones's death heard the 18-year-old was "more than likely" responding to a cry for help before he disappeared and apparently slipped and fell down an embankment. The coroner recorded an open verdict, but said he was satisfied the student drowned.

Mr Jones, who took part in swimming, running and rugby, was starting a primary teaching course and had moved to Worcester from his home in Bromsgrove before his death.

His family said the festival, in collaboration with WMSR, was a celebration of his life and love of sport.

The charity said it was a "crucial fundraiser" as the organisation was staffed by volunteers and relied on grants and donations.

"We must raise over £100k each year to deliver our services to the communities of Shropshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire," a spokesperson said.

The festival, between 10:00 and 16:00 BST, will offer free coaching lessons for children to try rugby, hockey, football and cricket, along with a funfair, food stalls and music.