THERE were smiling faces across Malvern as the waiting ended and students got their hands on another excellent set of GCSE results.

At The Chase, 60 per cent of students obtained at least five A*-C grades.

Headteacher Kevin Peck said the students deserved a celebration.

"We're delighted with the results, which are impressive across the ability range and show again that young people at The Chase can achieve and often exceed their apparent potential," he said.

Ecstatic Matthew Gordon, 16, scored nine A*s and two As. Matthew, who will now study maths, further maths, chemistry, physics and geography in the sixth-form, said: "It's fantastic. It's been a really nervous wait but it's been worth it."

St James's School and Malvern Girls' College, which merge in September, celebrated dazzling results.

A total of 98 per cent of all results at MGC were grade A*-C, and 91 per cent at St James's.

Rosalind Haynes, headteacher of St James's, praised students and staff for their hard work.

Philippa Leggate, outgoing MGC headteacher, said: "I am delighted with the results, which are a realisation of the girls' abilities and the teachers' dedication."

At Dyson Perrins, 59 per cent of students achieved at least five A*-C grades. Head David Griffin said the results, a two-and-a-half per cent improvement on last year, showed the school was moving in the right direction. He said: "I'm thrilled for the students, who have all done so well. It's great for them and everyone at the school."

Malvern College excelled, with 96 per cent of students achieving at least five A*-C grades. Star performers were Lucie Harris, of Hanley Swan, with ten A* and two A grades, and Henry Wooton, with ten A*s and one A.

At Hanley Castle High School, 63 per cent of students returned at least five A* to C grades. Deputy headteacher Rob Johnston said: "We've had success across the board and some great individual performances.

"What's most pleasing for us is that so many of our students will be coming back to continue their success in our sixth form."