Death By Binge

Boozed-up student Gavin, 18, dies after marathon pub crawl

A Teenage student was found dead in the street after a marathon booze-up.

Gavin Britton's body was discovered on the grass near an arts centre by staff arriving for work.

The 18-year-old first year had been on a fancy dress pub crawl and was still wearing a wig and costume.

It is believed he died from alcohol poisoning after binge drinking with the university golf society.

Gavin had got into partying after starting at Exeter University this term. He posted a photo of himself on website MySpace drinking wine out of a bottle.

He said his motto was: "If you're not living on the edge, you are taking up too much space."

Gavin, asked on the site's survey, how he would like to die, replied: "Haven't really thought about dying yet."

He had turned 18 four months ago before leaving home in Barton on Sea, Hants, to study for a degree in business and economics. Yesterday Det Sgt Leon Lazarczyk said: "It is every parent's worst nightmare. This is a terrible tragedy and so much worse with Christmas being just around the corner."

They want to hear from mates about where Gavin was on Monday before being found near the Phoenix arts centre in Exeter city centre.

Friend Gareth Evans wrote on a website of tributes to Gavin: "On Monday he went out on a golf soc social, and in true Gavin style, got absolutely ratted."

His property developer dad Ian, mum Susan and brother Darren were being comforted. Neighbour Ed Browne said: "He was an outstanding student."

The Mirror