‘I was having nightmares about Preston after hearing about the autopsy’published at 10:45 BST
10:45 BST
Yunus Mulla
BBC North West Tonight
The statement, read out on behalf of Preston’s biological father, continues: “I learnt of Preston’s passing from the police, a day I remember so well, it was just awful.
“Two female officers came to see me and informed me that Preston had been killed and that two men had been bailed pending an investigation.
“Due to legal matters a lot of information was withheld from me.
“Upon hearing the news, I remember officers taking hold of me and me blanking out, the next thing I recall is waking up in hospital two days later.
“I am told that I was hysterical and crying and that it was for my own safety that I was taken to the hospital, clearly, I must have been in a bad place mentally.
“Upon being discharged from hospital, I turned to drink, which I knew wasn’t the answer, but I felt anxious about everything.
Quote Message
I was having nightmares about Preston after hearing about the autopsy. These included seeing some horrific images in my mind. The only thing that got me off the alcohol was when I started throwing up blood, at that point I knew that I needed help. Prior to that I didn’t realise just how hard hearing the news of Preston had hit me.
Image source, Elizabeth CookQuote Message
I am thankful to the church community that they have supported me, and I am now in a better place mentally and tee-total. Despite that I am still, to this day, on anti-depressants and anxiety tablets, things that have only been required following my release from hospital.