IT has been another year of exceptional A level success for Bury College with more than 800 of its students on target to take up university places.

This year the college is celebrating an overall pass rate of 98.9 per cent for its A Level courses with significant numbers of students sealing 100 per cent passes and Triple Distinctions.

One of those jumping for joy is Luke Mackey, aged 18, from Whitefield, who achieved the stellar grades need to ensure his place at one of the UK's highest ranked and most prestigious universities.

A former Philips High School pupil, Luke achieved an A in English Language and B grades in English Literature and French.

He is now set to head off to Durham University to study Modern Languages and Cultures.

Luke said: "I was really nervous this morning. I kept refreshing the web page waiting for my results to come out and when they did I was so elated and excited with them ­— I was so relieved.

"I found out I was going to Durham and at that point I probably felt the happiest I have ever felt."

After receiving his results Luke said he planned to go home and enjoy a celebratory glass of Prosecco before he gets ready to showcase his academic abilities at Grey College and take the next challenge in his stride.

Luke said: "I found the A Levels challenging but I quite like a challenge. Durham is a very prestigious university and also a challenging experience, So that's what I'm looking forward to most."

In the future Luke is hoping his degree will take him into a career as a translator or interpreter, working in a French speaking country in the medical or legal fields.

Also relieved after the agonising wait for exam results is Lilian Anderson, from Bolton.

After achieving A* grades in Biology and Psychology and an A grade in Chemistry, she will now study Zoology at The University of Manchester.

Lilian, a former Mount St Joseph pupil, said: “When I woke up I was really scared. I forgot what time the results were available online so I was there just refreshing the page.

“When they came up I was very excited. I’m very happy. There was always a doubt that I might not get the A in chemistry so I’m very glad that I did.”

She added: "My results are a dream come true. I have loved my time at Bury College and I have received great support from my tutors. They have gone above and beyond to help me.”

Joining Luke and Lilian at another prestigious Russell Group university is Jake Cardwell ­— who achieved three A grades in Physics, Maths and Further Maths.

A former Elton High School pupil, Jake will now progress onto the University of York to study Physics.

He said: “I struggled with my exams, so I am happy with what I came out with.

“I am very proud that all my hard work has paid off. I have enjoyed my time at Bury College and I am happy with where it has taken me.”

Leaving Bury to tread the boards is Danielle Strong, who achieved an A in Media, B in English Language and Literature and a C in Drama. She will now study Acting at Liverpool Media Academy.

Danielle said: “It feels great to have my results as evidence of all the hard work I have put into my A Levels. I had an amazing time at Bury College and I have met some great people who will be my friends for life.”

However, A Levels were not the only route to success as 206 Bury College students secured the highest Triple Star Distinctions through BTEC diplomas.

Katie Furgusson, a former Broad Oak Sports College pupil, achieved a Triple Star Distinction in her BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Applied Science, as well as an A in A Level Chemistry. She is now set to take up a place at the University of Manchester to study Pharmacy.

Katie said: “I feel amazing to have achieved my grades and I am so thankful to my Bury College tutors for their support and guidance.”

And taking his success out of the classroom and onto the high seas is Nathan Wildblood who earned an impressive Triple Distinction Stars in his BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Engineering.

He will now complete an Engineering Apprenticeship with the Royal Navy.

The former Woodhey High School pupil said: “I am extremely happy that I have achieved the results I have done. I have enjoyed learning new skills and Bury College and learning about all different aspects of Engineering.”