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Maltby youngster dies after eating chocolate
A MALTBY Comprehensive student with a severe peanut allergy has died after eating a chocolate bar.
Sixteen-year-old Dexter Skinner, who had just finished taking his GCSEs, spent two days in ICU at Rotherham Hospital suffering from anaphylactic shock.
His parents, from Maltby, say they are puzzled by how mountain biker Dexter came to bite into the fatal snack, because he was aware of the foods he was allergic to.
They are also keen to trace and thank two men who called 999 and gave him first aid when he collapsed in Swinton on the morning of Monday 30th June.
"If anyone knows these people, Dexter's parents would like to pass on their heartfelt thanks and gratitude," said a family spokesman.
Dexter - described as an 'inspiration' by Maltby Comprehensive headteacher David Sutton - intended to return to the Braithwell Road school in September to continue his education.
"All the staff and students who knew Dexter are deeply saddened," said Mr Sutton. "He was a popular young man who worked hard in and out of school to become successful."
Tribute sites have appeared online, with many of the 16-year-old's friends leaving messages for him.
"It's hit me hard and all I want to do is cry," said friend-of-nine-years Scotty Swaby on the Facebook group page 'RIP Dexter Skinner'.
Gillian Higgins, a neighbour of Dexter's, wrote: "I have seen you grow into a lovely handsome lad. You will be sadly missed on our street. Not seeing you riding up and down the street with your brother will be strange. God bless you Dexter."
Dexter's funeral will be held at St Bartholomew's Church, Maltby, at 11.30am on Tuesday, followed by a private cremation.
Anyone with information about the men who helped the youngster after he collapsed can contact Georgina Hill at Maltby Comprehensive on 01709 812864.
You can leave a message for Dexter on this page by logging in and typing in the box below.
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Saturday 04 February 2012
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