Night out turns to tragedy

A PERTH couple were continuing a bedside vigil at Perth Royal Infirmary
yesterday, as their teenage daughter fought for her life in intensive care -
the latest alleged victim of the dance drug Ecstasy.

Eighteen-year-old fitness fanatic Julia Dawes has received round-the-clock
treatment since a friend's birthday night out on the town turned to tragedy.

The teenager fell critically ill after celebrations which ran into the early
hours of Saturday morning and was rushed to hospital.

Her devastated parents, Alan and Jacqueline Dawes - owners of the Hanovers
health club in Perth's George Street - were by her side yestereay as a team
of doctors fought to save her life. Her condition was described as "critical."

It's understood that the former Perth College business studies student - who
works as a sales manager at the family health club - was with a crowd
celebrating a girlfriend's birthday in local bars before moving on to a
nightclub.

Yesterday, staff and members of the George Street club were coming to terms
with the news that the vivacious teenager, who recently raised cash for
local children's charities through a major fashion show, was gravely ill.

A spokesman for Hanovers said: "Obviously the family - and members of staff
- - are in a state of shock. Staff were devastated to hear the news that Julia
was in hospital and our thoughts are with her family.

"Julia is an extremely popular girl with club members and staff. She's a
keen exercise enthusiast, taking part in club aerobics sessions and enjoying
the gym facilities. She's the sort of girl that lights up your life. You
feel you've known her forever.

"Julia is very sports-orientated, very confident and mature beyond her
years. In her working life she is the ultimate professional. Julia is a
beautiful young woman with so much potential - and the world at her feet.
We're all praying for her."

Hanovers was opened officially in January by former Olympic sprint gold
medalist Linford Christie and it has more than 400 members.

Former estate agent Alan Dawes and his wife Jacqueline previously operated
an old folk's home and have property interests in the area. They have a
16-year-old son Jonathan, who has also joined the family business since
leaving school.

*Yesterday, the Procurator Fiscal at Perth confirmed that four people had
been arrested and charged with drugs offences. They have been released from
custody while police investigations continue.

Checked-by: Melodi Cornett