A-LEVEL students in Huddersfield enjoyed becoming record-breakers today.

Teenagers at colleges and schools celebrated their best-ever A-level results, along with thousands more across the country.

As predicted, the A-level pass rate rose to a new high - the 22nd year in a row.

And despite criticism from some quarters that the exams are being 'dumbed down', students and teachers were delighted with the successes.

Martin Rostron, principal of Huddersfield's Greenhead College, said: "Our pass rate has gone up to 99.5%. Last year the results put us top of the league tables and there is every chance that will be repeated this year.

"The students worked very hard and we have some of the country's best performances."

Philip Forrest, principal of Huddersfield New College, praised the students' success, which saw a pass rate of 97% among the 1,173 teenagers - up 1.5% on last year.

He said: "It is a real pleasure to see to many students gain the recognition they deserve for their hard work and ability.

"Much of their success is due to the hard work and dedication of their teachers and the support of their parents."

AS-Level pass rates at Huddersfield Technical College rose 2% this year. All foreign languages achieved 100% pass rates and there were big improvements in English, maths, business studies, history and physics.

Vice-principal Geoff Higgs said: "We are very pleased with our pass rates, which are in line with an improving trend."