Bereaved mum's social media warning after boy's death

Tommie-lee was a "loving" boy who was the "life and soul" of the family home, says his mum

The mother of an 11-year-old boy who died after copying something he is believed to have seen on social media has called on the platforms to take action.

Tommie-lee Gracie Billington was found unresponsive after a sleepover at a house in Lancaster in March.

The opening of an inquest was told he had inhaled "toxic substances".

Sherri-Ann Gracie, who described Tommie-lee as a "loving boy" and the "life and soul" of their house, said she was "angry" videos showing peoples sniffing or inhaling toxic substances, as Tommie-lee is understood to have done, are still available online.

Tommie-lee's mum says his death has left a "huge hole" in the family and their hearts

She said: "[They] really need to do more before this happens to any other people.

"I don't want anyone else to suffer like this, because it's awful.

"It has left a huge hole, not only in our family but in our hearts as well."

Mrs Gracie said she wanted to make sure children - who "think they're invincible" - were aware of activities that were apparently encouraged on social media

"They don't know the consequences and unfortunately my Tommie-lee didn't," she said.

Tommie-lee's older sister, Crystal, said she has seen similar content and she has reported it online.

She said she and her brother, who wanted to be a footballer, were very close.

"We did everything together," she said.

An inquest into Tommie-lee's death has been delayed to allow further investigations.

A 25-year-old man from Lancaster arrested over allegations of child cruelty and neglect remains on bail, Lancashire Police said.

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