Alcohol warning after boy, 12, dies

Gary Young died after choking on his own vomit

The mother and stepfather of a 12-year-old boy who died after drinking alcohol have warned other parents of the dangers.

Gary Daniel Young died at York District Hospital on 19 July after choking on his own vomit.

He had collapsed on playing fields near his home in Holme Upon Spalding Moore, near Hull, after drinking cider with his friends.

Humberside Police have launched an investigation into his death and how the children got hold of the alcohol.

Gary had been drinking cider with his friends

Gary's mother Sarah Young, 33, and his stepfather Steven Waudby, 34, paid tribute on Friday to their "wonderful boy" who was "a lovely, warm person".

His mother said he would not have bought the alcohol himself, adding: "If Gary hadn't had the alcohol he would still have been here with us today."

She added: "Gary was not an out of control yob, he was a very popular, wonderful boy who liked climbing trees, his skateboard and playing the drums.

"Everybody who knew him remembered him as a lovely, warm person with a fantastic smile."

She said the only alcohol they allowed him was a small bottle of beer on special occasions, under supervision.

Young people need to be aware of the full effects of substances and aware of the potential health problems.

Tom Phillips, a consultant nurse at Hull and East Riding Community Health Trust

She added: "You cannot wrap children up in cotton wool but they should be told and made aware of the dangers of drinking alcohol.

"Parents should also keep a check on their drinks cabinet and any alcohol in the fridge."

Tom Phillips, a consultant nurse at Hull and East Riding Community Health Trust, said young people drinking alcohol was a growing problem.

He said increased availability and advertising which portrayed drinking as fun were partly to blame.

He added: "The concern is that as naive users they are much more prone to the affects of alcohol.

"Young people need to be aware of the full effects of substances and aware of the potential health problems."