The Conference and Media Suite at the University of Worcester has been officially dedicated to Joel Richards, whose life was tragically cut short in the Tunisian terror attacks last year.
During a moving ceremony, in front of Joel's family and friends, HRH The Duke of Gloucester, the University's Chancellor, unveiled a special memorial plaque and spoke candidly about the tragic loss of a young life.
Joel was a Physical Education and Sports Coaching Science student at the University of Worcester. As a dedicated football referee and a gifted student with a passion for teaching, Joel had a truly bright future ahead of him.
He was just 19 years old when his life was tragically taken in the Tunisian terror attach of 2015. Joel's younger brother, Owen, survived the horrific events of that day, but their uncle, Adrian Evans, and grandfather, Patrick Evans, were also sadly killed. The attack claimed the lives of 30 British victims.
The University has dedicated The Joel Richards Conference and Media Suite at the University of Worcester Arena to celebrate and memorialise the tremendous impact Joel had on all those who he met.
Professor David Green, Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Worcester, said: "Today's naming ceremony was a celebration of the wonderful achievements of a truly remarkable young man, whose life was cruelly taken.
"We are hugely proud that Joel was one of our students, who is remembered for his ability to inspire those around him. It is very fitting that his name will live on inside the University of Worcester Arena, an inspirational building that was borne out of the very principles to which Joel was committed - true inclusion and helping each person to make more of their own rich human potential."
Joel's mother, Suzy, brother, Owen, and grandmother, Maureen, were among the many guests at the dedication event. They were joined by other family members, friends, classmates of Joel's and the University staff who taught him.
Suzy spoke movingly about her son and the charity, Smile for Joel, which she hopes will raise money for Victim Support.