University pays tribute to tragic Joel - The Worcester Observer

University pays tribute to tragic Joel

Worcester Editorial 29th Jun, 2015 Updated: 19th Oct, 2016   0

STUDENTS have paid their respects at a special memorial service following the ‘tragic loss’ of one of their peers in the Tunisia terrorist attack.

The University of Worcester hosted the act of remembrance for Joel Richards on Monday (June 29) at the flag pole in the St John’s campus.

The 19-year-old was killed during the tragic machine gun attack in Sousse on Friday (June 26) where his uncle, Adrian Evans, a member of Sandwell Council, and his grandfather, Patrick Evans also lost their lives along with several others from the UK and Europe.

Joel was studying Physical Education and Sports Coaching at the university and had just completed his second year.




Professor David Green, vice chancellor and chief executive, said: “Joel was extremely popular and well-known at the University. He was also a highly successful student. His tragic loss will be felt deeply across the University. We are doing our best to support staff and students at this very sad, most difficult time.”

The university has arranged counselling for the staff and students that studied with Joel and offer their sympathies to his family.


The number of British victims now stands at 15 and is expected to rise after what is considered the worst terrorist attack the country has seen since the 7/7 attack in London.

The gunman, 23-year-old Seifeddine Rezgui, was seen walking with a parasol which he dropped to reveal a machine gun that he used to open fire on the unsuspecting victims on a busy tourist beach.

Witnesses reported hearing explosions as the killer went into one of the hotels’ grounds to continue the massacre before being killed by Tunisian police.

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