Laos poisoning: Mum of tragic Simone White pays tribute to 'popular, fun-loving' daughter

Simone White, from Orpington, Kent, was one of a number of people taken to hospital after the incident in the popular backpacking town of Vang Vieng in Laos last week

The heartbroken mother of a young British woman who died after her shots were allegely poisoned at a bar in Laos has paid tribute to her “popular, fun-loving” daughter.

Sue White claimed the hostel at which her daughter Simone, 28, was staying offered free whisky or vodka shots for two hours every night. Simone and two pals had six each, it is understood.

But the next day they went to hospital after they fell ill. Simone, who was a lawyer, since became the fifth person to die in what is believed to have been a string of poisonings in Vang Vieng, a popular tourist destination. A sixth person has since also lost their live, the Mirror reported on Friday.

Speaking from her home in Kent, Orpington, on Friday, Sue expressed her grief. The mother of two said: "Simone was such a popular, fun-loving girl, who was hugely well thought of. What’s happened is absolutely tragic, she had everything going for her. We’re absolutely devastated. You never dream that your 28-year-old daughter is going to be taken from you."

Sue, who is a travel agent, told The Sun Simone became delirious and had trouble breathing. She continued: "Simone was one of a kind and had the most wonderful energy and spark for life. She was a soul who gave so much to so many and was loved by her family, friends and colleagues.

"Simone has been taken from us too soon, she will be sorely missed by her brother, grandmother and entire family. Our hearts go out to all other families who have been affected by this terrible tragedy."

The investigation into her death, and that of the six other young people, continues in Vang Vieng. It is understood the others are two Australian teenagers, an American and two Danish tourists.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said it was also providing consular assistance to British nationals being treated in hospital after the incident, as well as their families. The FCDO said it was in contact with the local authorities regarding the British nationals affected.