Students picking up GCSE results across the region celebrated some of the best results the area has ever seen.

Sir John Leman High School, in Beccles, saw a record result with 68pc of students achieving a grade 4 or above in English and Maths, and 50pc getting grade 5 or above, an 11pc increase on last years results.

Phoebe Ellis was the school's top performing student with nine grade 9s, two grade 8s, and an A in Additional Mathematics.

She said: "I've done so much better than I thought I would, I didn't think I would get these grades. They're all really surprising. It was hard work but I'm glad I put in the hard work for it.

"The hardest part was the pressure. Obviously there's A-Levels after but there's pressure to keep getting good grades, especially if you've got them before."

Top grades also went to James Mitchell who gained eight grade 9s, two 8s, a level 2 Distinction and an A in Additional Mathematics.

Theo Bellaby was "really happy" to receive mostly 7s 8s and 9s, and looks forward to studying at Lowestoft Sixth Form to prepare for a career in the health service.

He said: "The hardest moment was maybe the moments before you go into the exam, not knowing how you'll do or what the paper would be like.

"I'm thankful to all my teachers who helped me."

Headteacher Mike Taylor said: "The school is over the moon with the GCSE results this summer. We are incredibly proud of our year 11 cohort of 2019."

At Bungay High School, 61pc of students achieved a grade 4 or above in both English and Maths. Oliver Ridhton was the school's highest achiever, scoring all 9s and 8s. He said: "I had hopes but it's beyond what I was properly expecting. I'm really really happy."

Top grades also went to Katie Kerridge, who said: "I was looking at the grade boundaries this morning and I was thinking 'oh no I've not done very well'.

"But I got 9's and 8's, and passed maths. I'm so happy, it's really great. I really wasn't expecting that."

Headteacher Angelo Goduti said: "Students have worked extremely hard and been so committed to their learning. We are extremely proud."

At Beccles Free School 51pc of students achieved at least grade 4 in English and Maths. Headteacher David Lees said: "I would like to personally say congratulations. All students achieved the post-16 option of their choice."

At Hobart 65pc of students achieved above grade four in English and Maths. A spokesperson said "We are very proud of our students."

At Langley school, in Loddon, 70pc of pupils gained grade 4 or above in both English and Maths.

Seven pupils achieved what would have been all A grades, by the old measure, with grades 7-9 in all their subjects.

Jess Stone achieved seven grade 9s, an 8 and a 7; she has achieved this alongside a busy co-curricular life, including a prominent role in the Debating Society. Tom Connor achieved four 9s and four 8s, and James Kerridge, Charlie Peacock and Robert McCall all achieved an average grade above 8 (the old A*).

Headmaster Jon Perriss said: "Our pupils' results reflect the commitment that they have shown to their learning in recent years and they have my warm congratulations. Langley pupils have achieved impressively, the culmination of many years of work, and crucially, support from parents and teachers."