Leeds Festival death: Family pay tribute to David Celino, 16

  • Published
David CelinoImage source, Family
Image caption,

David Celino was taken ill at the festival on Saturday night and died in hospital on Sunday

A boy who died at Leeds Festival has been described by his family as a "beautiful, fiercely independent and warm character".

David Celino, 16, from Worsley, in Greater Manchester died in hospital on Sunday morning after being taken ill at the festival the night before.

West Yorkshire Police previously said it was suspected he had taken a particular type of ecstasy.

The force said its investigation into his death was ongoing.

In a tribute, his family said: "Our David was a beautiful, fiercely independent and warm character who lived every day at 110% and who loved to spend time enjoying music with his friends.

"He had just received fabulous GCSE results, got into college, and had hoped to study computer science at a top university.

"Leeds Festival was the highlight of his summer - ultimately it was to take his life in the most unfair, cruel and horrible way, and we are broken."

Image source, PA Media
Image caption,

Inquiries are continuing at Bramham Park, police said

Organisers Festival Republic said it was working closely with police.

Managing director Melvin Benn said: "We are truly saddened about this tragedy and our sincerest thoughts are with the family at this time.

"We are working closely with West Yorkshire Police to assist with their investigation and take all reports of incidents where drug use is suspected seriously.

"The safety and wellbeing of all our festival goers is always our absolute priority and we remind all festival goers that there is no safe way to take prohibited drugs and there are no safe prohibited drugs."