EXAM results by teenagers across Kirklees were better than ever.

Figures compiled by education officials yesterday show there has been another improvement on last year's record GCSE successes.

Now the students have been praised for their efforts.

Clr John Smithson, deputy leader of Kirklees Council, said "I would like to congratulate all concerned - students, staff and parents - on this year's achievements.

"As is always the case there are differences from school to school and from year to year because of the changes in the abilities of individual year- groups.

"There will be a lot of young people in Kirklees who have much to cele- brate," said Clr Smithson.

"That will be a reward for their efforts and application and the support of their teachers over a number of years.

"Their results will enable them to move on confidently to the next stage of their career development, further education or employment and training."

Calderdale pupils have been praised by school standards minister David Milliband following this year's GCSE results.

Early indications show further improvement in the performance of pupils at schools across Calderdale.

Of those pupils who took GCSE exams this time, more than half gained five at Grade C or above.

Brooksbank School at Elland, Brighouse High, Hipperholme and Lightcliffe High and Rastrick High all made significant progress.

Mr Milliband said: "I want to congratulate pupils from Calderdale on their fantastic efforts.

"Their hard work and that of their teachers and Calderdale education authority has paid off.

"Rising standards in our schools - and the best generation of teachers ever - have helped Calderdale pupils achieve great things in their GCSEs.

"I am proud of you and your teachers."