Grief-stricken family of Shrewsbury diet pills tragedy woman Eloise Parry thank public

The 21-year-old died after accidentally taking a lethal dose of diet pills bought over the internet.

It is believed the pills contained dinitrophenol, also known as DNP, which are highly dangerous and not fit for human consumption.

The formal cause of death has not yet been confirmed, and an investigation is under way to establish where the tablets were bought and how they were advertised. Chief Inspector Jennie Mattinson, who is leading the investigation, said: "Her family have expressed their wish to now have the opportunity to mourn their loss privately and thank the public for their kind words and support.

"West Mercia Police are looking into the circumstances surrounding Eloise's death and will continue to support Eloise's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time."

Eloise, known as Ella, of Mereside, Shrewsbury, and a student at Glyndwr University, died at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital on April 12.

She had driven there herself after taking eight of the pills, just two of which were said to constitute a lethal dose.

Doctors were unable to save her.

Users of DNP experience a metabolism boost, leading to weight loss, but taking even a few tablets can be fatal.

Signs of acute poisoning include nausea, vomiting, restlessness, flushed skin, sweating, dizziness, headaches, rapid respiration and irregular heartbeat.

Shropshire Council's public health team have warned of the dangers of buying drugs via the internet.

Professor Rod Thomson, Shropshire Council's director of public health, said: "We are extremely saddened to hear of the tragic death of Eloise Aimee Parry and our condolences go out to her family at this time.

"It is important that people remember that any drugs or substances from unregistered websites could be potentially unsafe. This includes those which claim to bring about improvements to the body, such as slimming pills."

An inquest into Eloise's death has been adjourned until July 2.