A NAIL-BITING wait for this year's A-level results came to an end today (Thursday), with hundreds of students in south west Hertfordshire finally receiving news that would shape their future.

At West Herts College, staff announced a 15 per cent increase in pass rates.

Ten courses, including English and drama, achieved a 100 per cent pass rate and the college said their success rate was above the national average.

At Francis Combe School and Community College staff said they were confident that this year's results were their best ever, with English, Law and Film Studies achieving a 100 per cent pass rate.

Deputy Head, Geoff Carr, said: "We are very pleased with the results and I have a feeling that these results are some of the best we have ever had.

"For the first time we are able to look at subjects across the board and say everyone has done really well.

"A great number of our students who were hoping to go to university have checked their results and are definitely going.

"It's a tremendous achievement."

For a full story and reaction see tomorrow's printed version of the Watford Observer.