PUPILS’ achievements were celebrated at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School during a speech night.

At the event the school honoured pupils who helped achieve record pass rates with A Levels and GCSEs.

In a speech give by headteacher Alan Porteous, he spoke proudly of students who attained the top grades of A or A*.

Mentioning the school’s top A-Level performers, he said: “Students were able to take up an offers at Oxford and Cambridge University, while other students gained highly competitive places in the top medical schools.”

Mr Porteous also recognised outgoing members of staff. He said: “Three long-standing members of teaching staff also retired with nearly a hundred years service between them have retired.

“Mrs Sellens, Mr Archer and Mrs Young, who spent her entire teaching career here. All of these staff made their mark on BRGS and will have had an impact on the lives of many of you here tonight.”

“Over its 100 years of history, BRGS has been many things. As we go forward into our second century, a commitment to the development of students as well rounded individuals and potential future leaders of our community through an exciting and challenging curriculum and an extensive enrichment programme will continue to be at the heart of our vision for BRGS.”

Achievements included exceptional A-Level pass grades for Nathan Mattock achieved 5A* and 2A grades, and and Joseph Holdsworth-Miller achieved 6A* and one A grade.

Pupils’ GCSE success was also recognised at the event. Hassaan Ahmed, Elliot Fosong and Cerys Gregory achieved 11A* grades, and Elizabeth Gallagher achieved 10 A* and an A.

The school’s Year 8 Rugby team became Rossendale Champions for the second time in successive years.

Young Musician of the Year competition was won in the various categories by Emma Haworth, Hannah Birtwell and Chalcedonay Williams.