SIXTH formers have been inspired by an ancient community whose final moments in life were preserved in volcanic rock and ash.

Richmond Sixth Form College students Claire Heseltine and Samya Kelly were particularly affected by the plight of the people of Pompeii, Italy, petrified in the volcanic eruption of Vesuvius in AD79.

The 18-year-olds are now hoping to read classical studies and archaeology at Oxford and Cambridge universities next year.

They were among two parties of Richmond sixth formers on a seven day trip to Italy, one visiting Naples the other Venice.

“It was incredible seeing the shapes of people preserved in ash and pumice,” said Miss Kelly, of Arkengarthdale.

“It has made me think seriously about what I would like to study at Cambridge and I am now leaning more towards archaeology.”

Miss Heseltine, of Richmond, who hopes to study at Oxford, added: “The trip was incredible and brought to life what we have been studying at college. It was incredible looking at artefacts that were nearly 2,000 years old.”

For more information on opportunities at Richmond Sixth Form College log on to www.richmondschool.net/sixth-form