STAFF and students from Stockton Sixth Form College will make a poignant trip to New York next week.

During last year's annual college trip, students visited the World Trade Centre, where geography teacher Stephen Rickerby recalls meeting a helpful receptionist at the inquiry desk.

"I can only wonder if she survived September 11," he said as 22 students and two teachers prepared for the trip.

Mr Rickerby said: "This is our third annual visit to New York and it is always a favourite, though this year it will be tinged with sadness."

During the five-day trip they will also take in Harlem, Central Park, Chinatown, and the Empire State Building.