THE family of a 19-year-old Aberystwyth University student, who remains in critical condition in hospital following an early morning assault, has said he “absolutely loves” the town.

Ifan Richards Owens, a second-year criminology student at Aberystwyth, was assaulted on High Street at around 2.20am on Sunday, 14 January.

Four men have been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent in relation to the incident and remain in police custody.

Ifan’s mum Mari, dad Gareth and brother Tomi are with him at University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff where he was taken with life-threatening injuries following the assault.

His family said in a statement that they had been “overwhelmed” by the messages of support.

“Ifan is a kind and gentle person, and we have been overwhelmed with messages of support from family, friends, as well as Ifan’s school friends, teachers, university friends, and sports teams, who are all sending their best wishes for Ifan, who is desperately ill following this incident in Aberystwyth,” Ifan’s family said.

“Ifan’s only choice for university was Aberystwyth, he had no interest in any other university and absolutely loves the town.

“He plays football and rugby for the Geltaidd football and rugby clubs and is enjoying his second year studying criminology at Aberystwyth University.”

Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses and information, including any footage of the incident and are seeking to speak to a man who gave Ifan first aid in the immediate aftermath of the attack.

DCI Anthony Evans, Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “The investigation into the events leading to Mr Owens’ injuries, leaving him in hospital in a critical condition, is ongoing and we continue to appeal for witnesses.

“We know a man administered first aid to Mr Owens before emergency services arrived, and we are continuing the appeal for him to come forward as he could give us information important to the case.

“Four men, aged 25, 23, 20 and 19, have been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent and remain in police custody at this time.

“We would urge anyone with any information that could assist in our investigation any witnesses to the incident or anyone who may have any CCTV or video footage of the incident to contact police on 101, quoting incident number 402 of 14 January.

“Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”