GIULIA Mori is swapping the green border country for the arid warmth of Italy.

The 18-year-old who was born in Rome before coming to live on the Herefordshire borders in 1994 is making her way in the world of fashion.

She has secured a place at the international school of fashion at Polimoda in Florence.

Giulia is a sixth form pupil at the Haberdashers' School in Monmouth and has been studying art, textiles and design technology.

She has also gained experience of fashion retail with Jungles in Abergavenny and Brecon.

Her three-year course in Florence begins in September and will be taught in Italian. It will also include a three-month placement with a leading Italian fashion house.

"Studying at Polimoda will I hope be the next step to fulfilling my ambition to become a fashion designer. Who knows what may lie ahead after Polimoda," she said.