A gap in fencing has been closed on the banks of the River Aire near to what is thought to be the scene of the drowning of student Matthew Wilcox last month.

Private landowners have closed the half-metre gap in the guard railing near Riverside Court after Leeds City Council wrote to them requesting the work be done.

Cllr Andrew Carter, Leader of Leeds City Council and executive member for development, said:

“We wrote to the landowners asking them to put an appropriate piece of fencing across this gap. Although this is not our land we must ensure public safety.

“We will also be looking at other areas of privately-owned land alongside the river which are accessible to the public to check whether there are any hazards. Our waterfront is a massive asset to the city and it needs to be safe for everyone to use.”

The body of 19-year-old Leeds University student Matthew was found in the river six days after he went missing following a night out.