Candlelit vigil held to remember 'kind' student
BBCHundreds of people have gathered for a candlelit vigil to remember a "bright and kind" 19-year-old university student who was found dead.
Carla-Maria Georgescu's body was discovered in University of Lancashire student accommodation in Preston last Thursday afternoon.
Nathan Owens, 34, of Hopps Street, Hartlepool, has been charged with the second-year student's murder.
Vice chancellor, Professor Graham Baldwin, thanked all those who joined the vigil in Preston on Tuesday night "for standing together and for honouring Carla-Maria's memory with such compassion".
Flowers, candles and artwork were laid at the vigil, which was organised by the university's students' union.
"This is a devastating time for Carla-Maria's loved ones and for the entire University of Lancashire," Baldwin said to the crowd.
He spoke of the "deep sadness", adding: "The shock, the grief and the overwhelming sense of loss that many of us are feeling is evident."
He said the community continued "to be here for one another during this extremely upsetting time".
Carla-Maria, a clinical psychology student, was described by her personal tutor and course leader as a "warm, bright, engaging and enthusiastic" student, he said.
He said she was "working hard every day to realise her dream of becoming a clinical practitioner".
"Her kindness and her readiness to engage were gifts she brought not only to her studies but to everyone around her and tonight we hold those memories close," he added.
A book of condolence has also been made available for people to sign.
The university previously said it was working with police and "the wellbeing and safety of our students and staff" was its priority.
A spokesperson said support was being offered to anyone affected by the "devastating incident", adding: "Our thoughts are very much with loved ones, friends, and all those who knew our student at this incredibly distressing time."
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