Vulnerable youths urged to seek help

Restaurateurs Derry Clarke and Sallyanne Parker-Clarke have urged vulnerable young people to seek help following the inquest into the death of their teenage son.

Andrew Clarke, aged 16, was found slumped against a car in the garage of the family home on Meegans Lane, Crooksling, in Brittas, south county Dublin, on December 27 last year. He died four days later at Tallaght Hospital.

Coroner Dr Brian Farrell returned an open verdict after a urine analysis carried out on Andrew’s admission to hospital found cocaine and benzodiazepines, casting doubt on his state of mind at the time of his death.