Northern Ireland

Funeral held for drugs victim Jamie Burns

Family and friends follow the coffin of Jamie Burns as it leaves the family home in York Drive yesterday. Picture by Bill Smyth
Family and friends follow the coffin of Jamie Burns as it leaves the family home in York Drive yesterday. Picture by Bill Smyth Family and friends follow the coffin of Jamie Burns as it leaves the family home in York Drive yesterday. Picture by Bill Smyth

THE funeral has taken place of a 23-year-old man who died after reportedly taking drugs on a night out in Belfast.

Jamie Burns collapsed at Queen's University Students' Union in south Belfast early on Sunday morning.

His family believe that the call centre worker took two ecstasy tablets, before collapsing at the Winter Party dance event.

He was taken to hospital but died a short time later.

His heartbroken family joined mourners on Friday, with a short service first taking place at the family home at York Drive, north Belfast, before moving on to Roselawn Crematorium.

An avid Liverpool supporter, his coffin was adorned in club colours, complete with the badge and motto: 'You'll never walk alone'.

In the wake of the sudden death, parents Billy and Lesley Burns said they had been left "numb" by the tragedy and earlier this week warned other young people about the dangers of taking drugs.

Ahead of the funeral service, father Billy took to social media to speak of a "waste of a young life".

"Today's the day my only son leaves the only home he's ever known for the last time, such a waste of a young life. All over a tablet," he said.

Older sister Gemma said Jamie had made "one stupid mistake" and the "hole" left within the lives of the family "can never be filled".

Jamie has been described by friends as "the most gentle and helpful person you could ever meet" and someone who was "so genuine and kind".

He is survived by parents Billy and Lesley, sisters Gemma and Courtney and niece Hollie.

The PSNI has launched an investigation in the 23-year-old's death.