A teenager has told how his family was smuggled out of Afghanistan to escape the Taliban.

Farid Nabizada, who is now 17 and studies at Palmer's College, Grays, recalled how good life had been before the religious extremists took over.

The student, from South Ockendon, revealed shocking details of his life in a talk to fellow students. Farid said his family had a business which provided a high standard of living.

"The Taliban took our property. They were particularly disapproving of television. All TV, music and dancing were banned.

"The women were barred from education and driving. They had to wear the burka in public," he said.

Fearing for their safety, the family was granted political asylum in Britain.

Published Thursday, March 7, 2002