Thomas Jones search: Second murder arrest over missing student and West Brom fan

A second man has been arrested on suspicion of murder as police continue to search for a teenager who went missing five days ago.

Thomas Jones, who is a West Brom season ticket holder, was last seen near the River Severn in Worcester during the early hours of Wednesday.

West Mercia Police announced earlier that officers had identified two men they wanted to speak to after releasing CCTV images recorded at nearby Velvet nightclub.

The man, aged 20, from Worcester, is in police custody after being arrested on Sunday.

Police today revealed a second man, also aged 20 and from Worcester, is now being questioned by detectives.

Thomas, 18, from Bromsgrove, was starting a primary teaching course at the University of Worcester.

He had only moved on September 16.

Officials from West Bromwich Albion had helped the search by tweeting out an appeal from West Mercia Police.

Police believe Thomas crossed the Sabrina footbridge before walking on to the footpath along the top of the flood defences on Hylton Road towards Hallow just before 3.50am.

The force said Mr Jones's family have been made aware of the arrest.

Detective Inspector Mark Bellamy said: "I understand today's update may have an impact on the local community and there will be officers in the local area over the coming days to offer reassurance to local residents.

"Anyone who is concerned is encouraged to speak to a local officer on patrol or to call us."

The officer, who thanked the public for the "unprecedented" response to an appeal for information, said police had been working "around the clock to try and determine what happened in the early hours of Wednesday morning".

Members of the public have been asked to stay away from the search area where trained divers and officers are conducting a "full and thorough search".

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101.