A
university student who was only taking part in a popular initiation
ceremony on campus has ended up suffering a horrible tragedy.
Ed Farmer
Ed Farmer, a 20-year-old Newcastle University student has died
after drinking too much alcohol’ at the one of the University's society
initiation.
The young man who was in his first year, had been taking part in an
initiation for the Agriculture Society when he stopped breathing.
The economics student was rushed to hospital but passed away the
next day with his parents, Jeremy and Helen, at his bedside, according
to the Mail Online.
The investigation into his death has been passed to the coroner by
Northumbria Police and the university said it was taking a hard-line on
activities that pose a ‘risk to the safety’ of students.
The 20-year-old’s death comes after that of Exeter student Gavin
Britton, 18, who died after drinking the equivalent of three bottles of
wine during an golf society initiation in 2006.
A student friend of Mr Farmer told the Mail: ‘Apparently it was
part of a society initiation. He got really drunk and they … didn’t
realise he had stopped breathing until it was too late.’
Ed Farmer and friends
His father, 52, released a statement in which he quoted one his son’s close friends.
He said: ‘You have undoubtedly proved to each and every one of
us that there is such a thing as “the guy who has it all” – the
intelligence, the humour, the looks and the personality. Not many people
can challenge a position like that. Thank you for all the memories.’
The statement added: ‘The family would like to thank all the staff at the hospital and university who have supported them throughout this time.’
The student, who was staying in halls in Castle Leazes but grew up
in Leicestershire, was taken to hospital at 5.45am on Tuesday.
Professor John Wilson, director of Newcastle University Business School, said he showed great academic promise.
A university spokesman added: ‘We are deeply saddened by the
news of the death of one of our students and our thoughts and sympathies
are with the family at this very difficult and distressing time.
‘In close collaboration with our students’ union, we take a
very hard line on all activities and behaviours that may constitute a
risk to the safety of our students.
‘Both the university and the students’ union have strict codes
of practice and policies on safety and responsible behaviour, and we
take every opportunity to ensure that our students understand the
importance of safety matters.’
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