THE family of Mac Campbell has apologised on the late youngster's behalf for the impact of drink driving which led to a car crash in February.

As reported by the Daily Echo, his inquest has heard the 20-year-old rugby player drank with team mates before driving to his death near Romsey.

Below is the full statement issued to the Daily Echo by his parents, Colin and Tracy Campbell:

 “We, Mac’s parents would like to just add that we are very realistic about Mac’s lifestyle and he did enjoy it to the full, however he has on many occasions left his car at a party or at the rugby club after games and events.

“We have had many a phone call from Mac asking for lifts home and or lifts to retrieve his car the following day. “Unfortunately on that night Mac took the decision to drive and only he knows why he did that but he has paid the ultimate price for it.

“We apologise for the distress caused to the occupants in the other vehicle involved who were actually known to Mac.

“He would be mortified at the grief caused by the events of that night. We would hope that this sends out a very strong message to other young people about the dangers of drinking and driving.

“Mac was a very popular and well liked person; he was a very polite and sociable individual without being over bearing. The 700 plus people that attended his funeral service are testament to the kind of person that he was.

“Macaulay’s name will live on through various fund raising events that have taken place to support several charities. Already tens of thousands of pounds that have been raised for this.

“We would like to thank our family and friends for their continued support during this very difficult time. It has been truly humbling. Thank you.”