A PETITION has been launched calling for more CCTV in the city, after Thomas Jones' disappearance.

The 18-year-old has not been seen since the early hours of Wednesday morning, going missing on his way home after a night out in the city centre during Freshers week.

Rebecca Scott has launched the petition on the change.org website, which says: "So many students go missing, especially in freshers week.

"Divers, boats, helicopters and police are called upon. Parents worry. Friends and family worry about the youngsters, essentially teenagers, starting off in their own lives for the first time.

"Please install CCTV to rule out any missing persons alongside the river, which all students have to cross when residing in halls or nearby accommodation and still wanting to 'live the student life' by attending the many student nights that are freely advertised out in the town.

"A few cameras would give parents, students and residents alike a peace of mind that you can not put a price on."

Worcester City Councillor Richard Udall said: "We have now came to realise the importance as a university city, with a vibrant nightlife, in investing in people getting home safely after a night out.

"There is CCTV not in operation. At the moment people don't feel safe."

The petition has already attracted more than 2,000 signatures.

Ross Renton, the University of Worcester's Pro Vice Chancellor, said: "Worcester is one of the safest cities in the UK.

"As a university, we are known for being particularly active in promoting student wellbeing and safety with a range of practical measures including providing a free taxi service back to campus from the Worcester City Centre at the start of the academic year."