Cash award for brain-damaged man

A man who suffered brain-damage when he was washed out to sea during a day trip organised by his local authority has been awarded undisclosed compensation.

Barry Miles from Marlborough, Wiltshire, was 16 when he went on the trip to Bournemouth in August 1998.

He was under water for 40 minutes and underwent prolonged resuscitation.

The agreed damages, which are likely to be substantial, will be paid by Wiltshire County Council on the basis of 85% liability.

The council had organised and supervised the day trip as part of a programme of activities for young people of Marlborough.

Mr Miles' counsel, Susan Rodway QC, told the court her client had been left with serious physical disabilities and cognitive, behavioural and memory problems.

Mr Miles, had been due to take up an apprenticeship with a building company when he was injured.

Approving the lump-sum settlement on Thursday as "very reasonable and sensible", Mrs Justice Cox wished the family well.

She said: "I enjoyed reading about Barry and his various interests and achievements and it is very clear to me that the fact he is doing as well as he is due in no small part to the devoted care he has received from his parents."