A mum today launched a campaign to hammer home the dangers of binge drinking after her schoolboy son nearly died following a boozy night out.
James Barton, 17, of Norwich Avenue, Southend, was put on a life support machine after drinking vast quantities of spirits during a friend's birthday celebration.
He collapsed in a Southend club and was taken to Southend Hospital's A&E where his heart stopped and he had to be resuscitated.
His mother, Judy, 36, now wants to start visiting schools to help educate students on the dangers of binge drinking.
She said: "Why are we allowing this to happen in our society?
"If this was happening because of ecstasy, it would be national news."
James, a pupil at Cecil Jones High School in Eastern Avenue, said: "I have learned my lesson. I could have died."
More in today's Echo
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