IN an increasingly competitive world, the pressure youngsters are under as they prepare for exams should never be underestimated.

The death of 17-year-old Matthew Ibbott is a tragic illustration of the dangers brought by that pressure and the difficult decisions young people have to make.

An inquest into Matthew's death yesterday heard that he had shot himself at home in Durham after becoming stressed about his studies, his choice of university and which course to take.

We do not for a moment suggest that Matthew had not had the right kind of support at home and at school.

He was clearly from a loving home and attended a school with a strong reputation. Our hearts go out to his family, teachers and friends.

By setting up an educational trust fund in Matthew's memory, his mother, Dr Naomi Ibbott, is hoping to help students facing financial hardship to go to university to study science. It is a very positive and appropriate way for her son to be remembered.

As well as encouraging support for the trust, we also hope that the publicity surrounding this tragedy will act as a reminder to young people that they should never be afraid to seek help if they feel that the strain is becoming too much.

And it should also act as a warning to parents and teachers about the very real and potentially tragic consequences of exam pressure.