POLICE have launched an investigation in to the death of a young man who collapsed and died after an 18th birthday party just hours after being released from police custody.

Paul Campbell had been out with friends at Swindon Rugby Club in Greenbridge Road, on Friday night to celebrate two friends' birthdays.

After that he moved on to a party at a friend's home in Haydon Street, in the town centre.

The 21-year-old, from Eldene, collapsed at the house and although an ambulance was called Mr Campbell died shortly after in the early hours of Saturday at the Great Western Hospital.

Officers have revealed that he had been arrested for a minor offence hours before the party and had left police custody at 8pm on Friday.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPPC) will now carry out its own investigation in to Paul's time in custody.

Friends who were at the party say Paul had seemed his usual self and had been enjoying the evening.

One 18-year-old, who did not want to be named, said: "There were about 120 people at the party and everyone was enjoying themselves and drinking away as you would on an 18th birthday.

"It finished at about midnight but there was still people hanging around.

"I'd seen Paul through the night and he had been dancing and stuff.

"I saw him at the end of the party and he was one of the last to leave.

"He seemed like he'd had a bit too much drink but nothing looked wrong.

"He looked all right."

The teenager says Paul had a lot of friends in the town who will be shocked by his sudden death.

"He was popular and he would be out most Saturdays in town," he said.

"Most people knew him and it's obviously really unexpected."

Det Sgt Dave Williams said a post mortem was due to be carried out last night.

And he said they were still trying to piece together the events leading up to Mr Campbell's death.

"Police are investigating the man's movements leading up to the time of his collapse and are interviewing friends and family who may be able to assist their inquiry."

The landlady of the rugby club said there had been no trouble at the party. Anyone with any information which may help the investigation can call Swindon police on 0845 408 7000 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.