THE memory of tragic Joe Medforth will be kept alive, thanks to a new award given to outstanding students at his university.

The 21-year-old, from Ryther, between York and Selby, was murdered in a booze-fuelled attack while he walked home from a night out in Preston, where he studied psychology at the University of Central Lancashire.

Anthony Silcock and Carl Newton were jailed for life for his murder at Preston Crown Court last week.

Joe's father, Albert, said the university's student organisation, Touch, of which his son was a volunteer, will now present the Joe Medforth Award to the year's most outstanding student in tribute to him.

The group offers support to young people with drugs problems and other issues, and Joe's contribution was much admired.

"Joe was such an outstanding student that they have decided to keep his memory alive by giving out this award each year," said Mr Medforth.

"I think it's a wonderful way to remember him and we're quite honoured that they would do that.

"Joe's university has been absolutely excellent, I'm full of praise for everything they've tried to do."

Mr Medforth said they planned to attend the ceremony in Preston, when the award will be handed over.

After the court case, Joe's family said they would never forgive the "evil cowards" who killed him, but said he probably would have done.

His mother, Susan, said Joe was considering a career in criminal psychology, and may have gone on to helping people like his killers.

"I just wish he would walk back through the door," she said.

Mr Medforth, 73, the former postmaster at Cawood Post Office, said: "Leading up to the court case we were in a state of shock and couldn't concentrate on anything.

"We felt a sense of relief when we got to know the result, but the next day a black cloud descended over us when we realised that it was all over and Joe was never coming back.

"I don't expect we'll ever get over it."

Updated: 10:18 Wednesday, January 18, 2006