A tree has been planted in the grounds of college in memory of a sixteen-year-old student who died of a heroin overdose.

Nathan Cox, of South View in Southmoor, was only six months into a media course when he died in March last year.

His friends at Abingdon and Witney College suggested planting a tree and placing a brass plaque in the college grounds in memory of Nathan. The Malus red sentinel tree was planted at the Abingdon campus.

Nathan's father, Francis, said: " It was a most moving ceremony. I wanted to say a few words but was overcome with emotion. I would like to thank all those at the college who supported the tree planting in memory of my son.

"It was a tragic incident. He got into bad company and, as I understand it, he was experimenting with the drug. A young and promising life was snuffed out and the whole family is still trying to come to terms with the tragedy. It is a lesson for everyone who considers dabbling in drugs."

Nathan's tutor, Patsy Hughes, said: "We were all deeply saddened by his sudden and tragic death. The tree we planted in front of the College's new Arts Centre will be a permanent memorial to Nathan."