Man dies and four in hospital over suspected music festival ‘substance abuse’

POLICE have this afternoon named the teenager who died from suspected substance abuse at Kendal Calling.

Five people became ill after swallowing the pills – which could have featured Adidas or Rolls Royce logos – including 18-year-old Christian Pay, from Millom, who subsequently died in hospital.

Superintendent Mark Pannone said he would not be saying at this stage where the three other patients are from, nor would he confirm where those arrested are from.

A 20-year-old man from Manchester has been held on suspicion of possession with intent to supply.

Police are warning people not to take any illegal substances at the festival.

An investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding his death and police are supporting his family. Do not risk your health by taking any drugs. “Our overall message is it’s just too risky to take any substances”. He is now being detained for questioning.

The independent music festival is taking place at Lowther Deer Park in the Lake District, Cumbria from Friday 30 July – Sunday 2 August, 2015. “Please take extra care – illegal drugs have unknown contents”.

A spokesman for Kendal Calling said: “We are deeply saddened that a male who attended Kendal Calling passed away at Carlisle hospital this morning”.

Our thoughts are with the deceased’s friends and family.

Festival organisers said in a tweet “There have been serious drug related casualties requiring hospital treatment”.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary this weekend, Elbow, Snoop Dogg, Kaiser Chiefs, James, and The Vaccines lead the long list of acts playing Kendal Calling festival this weekend.

Get to know your campsite security team, store their number and call them if you see any suspicious / antisocial behaviour! “The laws of the land are as relevant within the festival field as anywhere else”.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Cumbria police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.