Tributes to student, 18, who collapsed and died in nightclub while celebrating end of exams

Tributes have been paid to a first-year university student who died in a nightclub while celebrating the end of his exams.

George Franks-Herbert, 18, died after suffering a "medical incident" at the Gravity nightclub in Clifton, Bristol, in the early hours of 1 February.

Emergency services were called but sadly the biochemistry student was pronounced dead at the scene.

His death is not believed to be suspicious.

The teenager has since been described as a "popular" student who was "clever, funny, genuine, good natured and determined".

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Professor Sarah Purdy, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Student Experience at Bristol University, said: "We are all very sorry to hear about the death of first-year Biochemistry student George Franks-Herbert.

"On behalf of the University, I would like to offer our sincere condolences to his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

"George was a popular student who had made lots of friends and he was enjoying his time in Bristol.

"Academically, he was doing really well, thriving in his studies and getting first class marks.

"I know this news will affect many of our students and staff deeply."

She said the university was reaching out to his friends and those who studied with him and encouraged anyone affected by the news of his death to contact the university's wellbeing services for support.

In a tribute on Facebook, Stagecoach Performing Arts Bridgend and Cowbridge wrote: "George was a part of our Stagecoach family for the longest time. He couldn’t remember or imagine a life without Stagecoach, & always looked forward to his Saturday afternoons with us.

"George started at Stagecoach as a 4-year-old, & in July 2021 received his 14-year award. Truly a remarkable student & young man.

"A million memories of him at Stagecoach are swirling around our heads. George was clever, funny, genuine, good natured & determined. And we are truly grateful to have known, taught & loved him.

"He turned 18 last June, & left Stagecoach last summer to go into the world to further his education. He had such a bright future ahead as he had started his degree in Biochemistry at Bristol University.

"A life taken far too soon."

In a statement, a spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: "At approximately 2.14am on Tuesday 1 February, police were called to assist the ambulance service with a medical incident they were dealing with at Gravity nightclub, Queens Road, Bristol.

"Sadly, an 18-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene. His family have been notified and our thoughts are with them.

"The circumstances of his death are not believed to be suspicious.

"Enquiries will continue to be conducted on behalf of the coroner."

Police say George's death is not believed to be suspicious.

A spokesperson for Gravity nightclub said: "Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of the deceased."