A haunting new discovery in Pompeii has revealed the desperate final moments of a family who tried to survive the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Archaeologists uncovered a bed wedged against a bedroom door inside the ‘House of Elle and Frisso,’ evidence of a futile attempt to block the deadly ash and debris.

The remains of at least four people, including a child, were found behind the barricade.

Experts believe falling lapilli may have warned the family, giving them just enough time to seek shelter but the deadly, fast-moving surge of scorching gas and ash – ultimately overwhelmed them.