IT was a tense day for school leavers from Cardinal Newman High School as they counted down the hours until they could pick up their results.

But it was a day of celebration for many with 78 per cent of pupils achieving five A* to C grades.

Figures also reveal that 70 per cent achieved both English and maths and 66 per cent achieved five A* to C grades including English and maths.

Head teacher Julie Warburton said she was delighted with this year’s results.

She added: “The hard work commitment and dedication of both the students and teachers has been rewarded.”

Bethan Morris was of many pupils breathing a sigh of relief after her hard work at the school had paid off.

The 16-year-old from Appleton said: "I was surprised but in a good way. I'm just relieved that the wait is over."