"My Son Had Never Taken Illegal Substances Before"
Father speaks out about his son's trauma after friend's death at party
The father of Chiswick Community School pupil Harry Barton claimed his son had 'never taken illegal substances' before the party where his friend Issy Reilly died.
14 year old Harry was taken to hospital along with the party's host Beatrice Hadjipateras and friend Jamal Clarke both also aged 14, after after taking drugs.
Speaking about his son, Nicolas Barton told The Standard "He is traumatised. He is in shock. He is remorseful, but he is physically okay. He was discharged on Tuesday. Harry took one tablet. There was no alcohol or anything else in his bloodstream. This will be verified by the police and the hospital.
"I can say with absolute certainty that he has not taken drugs before. I feel that Harry's experience was driven by curiosity."
Mr Barton said his son will return to school on Tuesday.
More than hundred teenagers turned out to pay their respects to their friend Issy Reilly on Monday 25th April.
The emotional vigil, held on Chiswick (Back) Common where Issy would often hang out with her friends, saw a number of pink and white balloons released into the air in memory of the 15-year-old Chiswick school girl who died after taking what is believed to be ecstasy in the early hours of Saturday 23rd April.
Issy's 17 year old brother Jack was among those who laid flowers and messages around a tree.
One read: "RIP Issy. Heaven has gained a beautiful, cheeky angel. You were taken from us too soon. We will miss you so much. Never to be forgotten."
Chiswick Community School teacher Jayne Williamson, said the whole school was devastated over what had happened to a "larger than life, lovely character" who will be sadly missed. She added: "We all know the kind of things teenagers get into. She got caught out. Everyone is just racked with grief."
60 year old Institute of Education lecturer Brian Dodgeon, whose daughter hosted the party, was arrested on suspicion of drug possession and child abandonment and bailed until June. He has been suspended on full pay.
Institute Director Professor Chris Husbands said: "The institute was deeply sorry to hear of the tragic events and extends its sympathy to Isobel Reilly's family and friends."
Detective Sergeant Neil Philpott, from Kensington and Chelsea borough, said: "We are yet to make contact with all those who attended and would ask anyone who was present at any point during the evening to make contact with officers by calling 0300 123 1212. Alternatively, you can speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
April 28, 2011
