Tribute after cave tragedy

The parents of Shropshire teenager Aiden Brookes who died when the roof of a cave collapsed on him, today paid tribute to the people of Bridgnorth for their support since the tragedy.

Kirsty and Ashley Brookes, speaking after an inquest recorded a verdict of accidental death, said they would like to see a memorial to the 16-year-old at Hermitage Caves in Bridgnorth.

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They hope a memorial would act as a warning to deter other youngsters from entering the area.

Mrs Brookes said: "We already have a private memorial to Aiden at Bridgnorth Cemetery, but the tribute at the caves would be a good way of remembering him and a hard-hitting way to point out the dangers of the caves."

Aiden, who was camping at the caves with about 20 other youngsters in April, died almost instantly from multiple injuries when he was struck by the large sandstone slab.

The inquest yesterday was told by a geologist that a pre-existing weakness in the "shoulder" of the 1,000-year-old cave had combined with the heat of a campfire to cause about 200kg of rock to sheer away from an overhang.

Following the verdict, the couple, of Paulbrook Road, Bridgnorth, said in a statement that they wanted to thank the people who had helped them since their son's death.

"Everyone has been so supportive and all of the family and friends of Aiden really appreciate the help and support we have received from the community as a whole," she said.

Mrs Brookes revealed that Aiden had been in a steady relationship with girlfriend Katie Stirling and they had been planning to holiday together in Corfu this year.

She revealed that Aiden had asked for permission to stay out overnight on the day of the tragedy with his friends, but changed his mind and sent her a text message telling her not to lock the door as he planned to return home.

"I did not read it until the day after the accident," said Mrs Brookes.

Mrs Brookes moved to England from South Africa with Aiden in 2002 after meeting husband Ashley on holiday.

Aiden also had two younger brothers, Bryce and Kyron.

By Brett Gibbons