A RIVERSIDE bench has been put in place in memory of city student Tom Jones, whose body was found in the River Severn last year.

Located on Grand Stand Road, between Sabrina Bridge and the Worcester Rowing Club, the new bench was placed by the city council at the request of the 18-year-old’s family.

Tom’s parents Vicki and Ian Jones, as well as sister Ellie, were met by David Blake, city council managing director, on Wednesday to officially unveil the bench.

Also present were council operations supervisor Mark Baylis and green space team supervisor Mark Worrall.

A plaque on the bench is inscribed with the following wording:

“With so much Love we remember Thomas Jones (Jonah)

"Tragically taken from us 19 September 2018 aged 18 years

"A wonderful Son and big Brother, Tom will be missed by all who knew and loved him

"Fly high with the angels Topman until we are all together again

"As you were…TJ”

Vicki and Ian said the tragedy "devastated us" but said they hoped the bench would bring them comfort.

In a statement to the press and public, they said: “Our heartfelt sincere thanks go to David Blake, Mark Worrall and Mark Baylis and all at Worcester City Council for the time you gave us today and for the wonderful bench you have so very kindly presented to us in Thomas’s memory.

“Tom’s bench means the world to us and we cannot express in words the comfort it will bring in the weeks, months and years to come to ourselves, our family and Tom’s friends.

“A special place we can visit to reflect and remember our lovely Tom.

“We know he would have been so happy studying in Worcester.

“These past few months have devastated us as a family, however, we have been truly overwhelmed by the love, support and care we have received from everyone in the Worcester community, you are very special to us and we will never ever forget your kindness. Thank you so very much.”