THE PARENTS of Kate Walsh have blamed their daughter's death on a failure by police to intervene when they pleaded for help.

The 16-year-old died from a suspected drug overdose in a grimy squat just two months after her desperate mother and father asked authorities for help.

In a statement, Anthony and Deborah Walsh, of Eastview Terrace, Highworth, said: "We are hoping their (the police) investigation will bring what happened fully into the light.

"We would, however, like to point out that sadly Kate's death is the result of the fact that there is no provision within the legal framework for helping a young girl who desperately cried out for help."

They added: "We would like to thank family, friends and the people of Highworth for their support and comforting words."

Mr and Mrs Walsh declined to comment on the circumstances surrounding Kate's death in a squat in Manchester Road, Swindon.

Their views were echoed by Jan Andersen, whose son Kristian took his own life with a heroin overdose at the age of 20, although he was not an addict when he died.

Mrs Andersen, 43, a freelance writer from Freshbrook, said: "I asked for help from social services when Kristian was a teenager because his behaviour changed so suddenly, and I knew something was wrong.

"But I was just told he was just being a normal teenager. There needs to be more help for parents, and someone needs to take responsibility.

"I would like to see a change in the law to give youngsters more protection."

Kate's body was found on January 3.

Mrs and Mrs Walsh had been frantic with worry about their daughter since she moved out of home to be with her boyfriend, who had a history of drug problems.

The pair met while the man, who was 27, was trying to beat his drug addiction at the Gloucester House treatment centre in Highworth.

But the police were unable to intervene because Kate was 16, and legally an adult.

The couple was helped by their ward councillor, Lisa Hawkes (Con, Highworth).

Following the tragedy, Coun Hawkes called for a full investigation into why neither the police nor social services could help.

Gavin Calthrop, spokesman for Swindon Council, was unable to comment on the case.

He said: "The council is awaiting the outcome of police investigations.

"Then we will be talking to our partners, including the police, about what our next steps should be.

"Obviously, our thoughts are with Kate's family and friends at this difficult time."

Kate attended Warneford School in Highworth, and was a popular pupil who enjoyed music and drama.

Schoolfriend Martin Score, 16, of Chepstow Close, Toothill, will always remember her with a smile on her face.

He said: "She had many friends and always seemed to be smiling.

"I am very shocked, I just can't believe this could happen to someone so young.

"My thoughts and sympathies go to her family."

Kate used to attend Highworth Youth and Community Centre.

Youth leader Chris Capel said the youngsters were shocked by news of Kate's death and were being offered help and support.

He said: "Understandably, they are very shocked.

"If youngsters need support, we will be there.

"We have a continuing drug education programme, which is run as part of the national youth service curriculum."

The police are trying to piece together the sequence of events leading up to Kate's death.

A number of witnesses have come forward following reports in the Evening Advertiser.

Kate's family last saw her on December 22.

Anyone with information should call Swindon police on 01793 528111.

tlal@newswilts.co.uk