A body found in the River Avon in Bath has been confirmed as that of missing student James Bubear. The 19-year-old from Llandrindod Wells, Powys, was last seen on CCTV walking along James Street West on 13 March after a night out with friends.
A post-mortem examination confirmed the identity, but the exact cause of death has not been established. Avon and Somerset Police said the death is not being treated as suspicious.
Mr Bubear's mother Vanda expressed gratitude for the support from the community. She said: 'We would like to thank James's fellow students and the people of Bath for taking him as one of their own, and for the support they have given us in these last few difficult weeks.'
Friends of James are calling for increased safety measures along the River Avon. Jenny Broughton, a friend, is petitioning the council for better lighting and CCTV. Avon Fire and Rescue said the number of deaths and incidents in the river is 'causing them concern'.
A spokesman for Bath and North East Somerset Council said an independent report into safety improvements has been commissioned and will be presented to relevant landowners. Marion Flagg, whose son Casper died in the river in 2009, also called for better lighting and railings in dangerous areas.
