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'If you're tempted to try drugs, remember the next one to die could be you'

Jonny Ramsey from Saintfield, Co Down died last month
Jonny Ramsey from Saintfield, Co Down died last month Jonny Ramsey from Saintfield, Co Down died last month

THE family of a Co Down teenager who died after reportedly taking a lethal 'party' drug have issued a powerful message appealing for people to "be strong enough to say no".

Heartbroken relatives of Jonny Ramsey from Saintfield have described how they "lost someone precious who took that chance" and took drugs.

The teenager died on October 24 - less than a fortnight after his 18th birthday - after reportedly taking a lethal 'party' drug. It has been suggested he may have taken two pink 'UFO' pills, which are a mix of ecstasy, methamphetamines and LSD.

In a post on the 'Street Safe' page on Facebook, his family and girlfriend Nicole Clarke have appealed for those tempted to take drugs to "think twice before experimenting".

"During the Xmas season many youth are tempted to make the most of a night out or a party," they said.

"Sadly drugs are available in most estates and pubs. The temptation and peer pressure is everywhere.

"I'd like to ask you to think twice before experimenting. It only takes one pill to kill.

"Drug dealers don't care who they sell too or what harm it will do, if it will lead to addiction or kill you as long as they are making money.

"We lost someone precious who took that chance. We know who sold the drugs, who they work for and who gave them to him.

Jonny Ramsey (18) from Saintfield, Co Down
Jonny Ramsey (18) from Saintfield, Co Down Jonny Ramsey (18) from Saintfield, Co Down

"But that won't bring him back."

The teenager's loved ones also described how they will be "forever grieving a wonderful young man".

"There is no way of telling what is mixed in these pills. Even grass is laced to make it more addictive," they said.

"So if you are tempted to try, remember the next one to die could be you. Or your friend. Your boyfriend, girlfriend, son, daughter.

"And those of you in company of drug users or anyone experimenting....encouraged to try drugs by friends....be strong enough to say no.

"Don't be fooled into trying it out. Lookout for signs that things can go wrong.

"They may look just high but it's too late when they are dead.

"We will be forever grieving a wonderful young man, a precious son, a treasured grandson, a wonderful brother and friend and amazing boyfriend.

"Taken at just 18. RIP Jonny Ramsey - loved and missed dearly Ramsey and Clarke families."

The family of Jonny Ramsey have appealed to others not to take drugs
The family of Jonny Ramsey have appealed to others not to take drugs The family of Jonny Ramsey have appealed to others not to take drugs