HELP for students unhappy with their A-level exam results tomorrow is just a phone call away- on THREE special lines.

The Samaritans, East Lancashire Careers Service and the Business and Technology Education Council, are all prepared for calls from students who did not get the results they expected.

And a major national radio advertising campaign has been launched by The Samaritans telling youngsters: "It's vital to talk to someone."

A recent survey of secondary school pupils revealed a staggering 44.7 per cent had at some time thought there was no point in living, with 12 per cent attempting suicide.

A Samaritans spokesman said: "Although there is no research to link exam pressures and suicide, it is a time of great stress for some young people. We want all young people to know we are there for them." East Lancashire Careers Service is launching a Student Helpline service tomorrow. Area manager Richard Marsh said: "Our message to those who find they haven't achieved the right grades this year is 'Don't panic.'

"We would encourage students to ring or visit us for the guidance, counselling and full support necessary to make the right choice."

BTEC is also launching a freephone helpline, encouraging students to think positively.

The Samaritans can be reached at 01282 694929, 01706 830999 or 01254 662424. ELTEC is on 01254 238478 and the BTEC helpline is 0500 524534.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.