The head teacher of Illkley Grammar School has spoken of the "sad and tragic" death of former pupil Joseph Preston who died of a suspected drugs overdose after apparently taking ecstacy at a Leeds nightclub this weekend.

Head teacher Gillian James said she remembered Joe, 17, as a quiet, but popular student with a large circle of friends.

She said Joe showed a natural flair for joinery and was continuing to successfully develop his skills at Craven College after leaving Ilkley Grammar School at the end of Year 11.

"It is a very sad and tragic case," she said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Joe’s parents, family and friends.

"So many people have been touched by Joe, and will be affected by his death: it is a terrible waste of such a young life."

Joe is thought to have attended Canal Mills, a dance music venue in Armley, Leeds, on Saturday night.

Afterwards he is thought to have headed to a friend’s house in Shipley. Officers were called at 9am on Sunday and Joe was taken to Bradford Royal Infirmary. He was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.