A FAMILY from Newton Aycliffe had a double reason to celebrate when the GCSE results were announced.

Mark Richardson, a pupil at Woodham Community Technology College, gained 11 A* grades on the day his father Steve celebrated his 50th birthday.

The 16-year-old, from Ryder Court, Woodham, said: "I was ecstatic. I was predicted good grades so there was quite a bit of pressure on me and I was really relieved when I managed to get them.

"My mum couldn't believe it. She thought it was fantastic and she's been telling all her friends and she's really proud."

Mark is preparing to study for A-levels in history, geography, biology and maths at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College in Darlington. He is aiming for a career as a lawyer.

Andrew Crawshaw, deputy headteacher at the school, said: "Mark's worked really hard and we're very pleased and proud of his results. He's a lovely lad and we're thrilled to bits."

The overall pass rate at Woodham this year is 44 per cent A* to C grades, with the top 10 students gaining 56 A* and A grades.