STUDENTS across Lancashire are preparing to pack their bags and head for university after local colleges reported a bumper crop of A-level successes.

Leyland's Runshaw College looks set to consolidate its position at the top of the further education college chart after recording a 96 per cent pass rate.

Among the Langdale Road success stories were three students who scooped FIVE grade As. Karen Steele, of Fulwood, was among those celebrating after picking up straight As.

College spokesman Jim Smith said: "We are delighted with these results because they are sure to consolidate our position as the top further education college in the country."

Students were also celebrating at Preston College. Although the overall pass rate was slightly lower than last year, students set new personal bests.

A college spokesman said: "Overall, the individual points score for our students has risen by 70 per cent over four years."

There were several high fliers at the St Vincents Road college. Neil King scored straight As in physics, chemistry, maths and further maths.

Cardinal Newman College notched up a 93 per cent pass rate. More than 58 per cent of students achieved grades A to C. Four students gained five straight A grades, while six notched up four grade As.

Principal Kevin Quigley said: "I am very pleased with our results which are the result of a lot of hard work on the part of staff and students."

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