TAVISTOCK College sixth form students have undertaken a life-changing humanitarian expedition teaching in Nepal.

Alex Southern, James Salisbury and Jack Litherland, all aged 16, helped in a clinic and opened a kindergarten in a traditional ceremony during thei­r two-week trip.

Alex said: 'It really opened my eyes. It was great to see a completely different culture and good fun working with children at the orphanage.'

The students visited Meghauli, Pokhara and Kathmandu and enjoyed parascending and treks through the countryside.

Jack said: 'It was really good and really did change me. You see it on the news but it's not the same as seeing it in reality; everything's totally different. The people were so nice and friendly and wanted to help.'

The students spent many hours playing with children in an orphanage and kindergarten, teaching them art and singing songs.

James said the children had never seen a balloon before and were so happy when it popped.

The trio raised funds for the trip by taking part in a 50-mile cycle ride, supermarket bag packing, car boot sales and an auction.

'We would like to thank all the Tavistock businesses which donated to the auction,' added James.