A MILLOM man who survived after taking a “rogue drug” at a music festival has spoken out to warn others not to take the risk.

Jordan Blackburn, 20, from Millom, is urging others to not make the same mistake after he took a pill at Kendal Calling last Friday with friends and ended up fighting for his life in the Cumberland Infirmary.

His friend Christian Pay, also from Millom, died as a result of the drug use at the popular festival and Mr Blackburn is determined to speak out in his memory.

Alison Turnbull has echoed her son’s message, describing it as every parent’s “nightmare”.

Mr Blackburn said: “Many lives over the weekend, not just those lost, but the families of those involved have been destroyed, including my own by the careless use of uppers at festivals.

“I really think I need to raise awareness and show people what the consequences are just off a little pill.

“I’ve been lucky enough to have a second chance at life and I’m clinging to every part for me and Chris, so the most I can do is let people know the consequences they put themselves in and their family.”

Nine people, including Mr Pay, were admitted to hospital after drug use at Kendal Calling last weekend.

Alison Turnbull said: “It has been the nightmare of every parent. I thought my world was about to end on Friday and I am just thankful that Jordan managed to pull through.

“If it hadn’t been for the fact that he was already in the hospital when he started to fit and deteriorate, we would have lost him too.

“I am so grateful that my precious boy made it through. Deb did not have that privilege and my heart is breaking for her, Adam and Chloe. I have an amazing family who dropped everything to be at the hospital and amazing friends who have given me support.

“Jordan is an amazing and sensitive young man who will have to live with the consequences of that day for the rest of his life. He will make Chris proud.

“When he was lying in his hospital bed, he uttered the words: “I’ve been given a second chance at life, haven’t I?’”

Four people were arrested in connection with drug supply and are due to answer bail at the end of September.

The opening of the inquest into Mr Pay’s death will take place at the Coroner’s Court in Cockermouth on August 17.