Toddler chokes to death on lolly

Francis Dean's parents want clearer warning on lollipops

A two-year-old boy from Manchester has choked to death after a lollipop sweet got lodged in his throat.

Francis Dean, from Newton Heath, was taken to hospital when the sweet got stuck, but he died in the ambulance.

His brother Michael, 13, had spotted Francis in distress and tried to take the lolly out of Francis's mouth, but the stick came away in his hand.

Parents David and Dawn Dean say they are "absolutely devastated" and want clearer warnings on the sweets.

Full investigation

Swizzels Matlow, manufacturers of the sweet, which was part of a "lots of lollies" pack prints a warning on its bags of lollipops but not on individual sweets.

A spokesman for the manufacturer said: "All at Swizzels Matlow were devastated to hear of the tragic death of two-year-old Francis Dean.

"Most of us at the company are parents and we can only imagine both the pain and anguish that Mr and Mrs Dean are currently facing.

"Our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy goes out to both family and friends.

"As soon as we are furnished with more details we will of course mount a full investigation as a matter of priority."

Francis's funeral is due to be held at All Saints Church, near the family's home.