REGARDING the report into the inquest of my sons, Jacques and Torin Lakeman, I would like to make the following comments.
Unfortunately, my sons, and the sons and daughters of many of your readers, live in a world where drug taking is not unusual, is socially acceptable, and easily available. It would be erroneous to think that only those with a troubled background, as depicted by the reporter, should be vulnerable. All children are.
My sons came from a loving family and community. They had faults. They were creative, articulate, talented, sensitive and caring. I rarely referred to them by name, simply calling them Superson 1 and Superson 2.
Immediately after their deaths I set up the Jactor Project. Quite simply this meant hiding a small plastic figure, that Torin collected and Jacques appreciated, in a part of the world they could no longer visit. I left several in Bolton. For my wife and myself the project is to remember my sons' brief lives and their lost potential. Most other people do it with an additional awareness that, there but for the grace of God, go me or mine. Family, friends and complete strangers of all ages have left these figures all over the world. Visiting Jactor Project might make someone in your family reflect.
Jactor Project is on Facebook. As am I.
The Coroner Alan Walsh, rightly drew attention to the 'Dark Web' and his intention to notify the Home Secretary is welcomed.
My wife and I do not want other families to endure what we have been through but drug taking will continue and I have little doubt that within a short time Coroner Walsh will be conducting another similar inquest. Much as I mourn the deaths of my boys it will be an even greater tragedy if nobody learns from what happened to them.
Ray Lakeman
Isle of Man
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here