THREE people arrested for suspected drug offences following the death of a 15-year-old boy at a party have been released on police bail.

A 14-year-old and two men, aged 19 and 25 were arrested by officers investigating the death of 15-year-old John Winter.

The three, from the Barnard Castle area, in County Durham, were questioned by police in Bishop Auckland on suspicion of possessing and supplying drugs at a party at Marwood Community Centre, near Kinninvie, about three miles from Barnard Castle.

John died from suspected hypothermia after he left the party and began walking to his home in Zetland Road, Barnard Castle, in freezing conditions.

Although he is believed to have been drinking, it is not yet known whether he had taken any drugs. Police are awaiting the results of toxicology tests, which are expected to take about a month.

Yesterday, John's mother said his death has left her feeling devastated and numb.

Amanda Winter said she had given John extra money for a taxi on the night he died.

She said: "I just expect him to walk in and kick his shoes off and shout 'Mam'."

She described him as an intelligent and caring boy who looked after his sister, Rebecca, 17, and brother, Blake, five, adding: "They were friends as well as brothers and sister and no lad was ever good enough for Rebecca."

Police last night warned that social habits and fashions made them fear another tragedy in the future.

Detective Superintendent Harry Stephenson said: "It has become the accepted norm for young people to go out at night to pubs and clubs wearing only flimsy clothes that are stylish and comfortable indoors, but which offer no protection against the current run of freezing weather.

"Add to that drink, sometimes taken excessively, and there exists a perilous mix. Trying to get home through any combination of the rain, sleet, snow and driving wind that we can still get at this time of the year can so easily lead to tragedy."