A student is preparing to start a degree course at Oxford University after achieving a magnificent seven top grades in his A-level exams.
Nathan Mattock, who studied at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School, gained five A*s and two As and is now looking forward to reading chemistry at Somerville College, Oxford.
Nathan, of Todmorden, surpassed even his own expectations by achieving so many top grades, including gaining full marks in several of his exam papers.
“It didn’t quite seem real at first,” he said.
“I opened the envelope and all these A*s popped out.
“It took a while to sink in. I’m over the moon.
“I’m really glad that my hard work has paid off.
The 18-year-old decided to study twice the usual amount of subjects as he wanted to increase his knowledge so he could pursue a career in photochemistry - a “new and exciting” area of science.
“The broader my knowledge, the more prepared I am for the future,” he said.
“I had to cram them all in. There was time in the school day to do it, but I had fewer free periods than my friends.”
In addition to his studies, the talented teenager found time to fit in a wide range of hobbies.
He plays Eb tuba in the local brass band, has dancing lessons, runs a small business, volunteers for a local charity and helps to look after his two-year-old sister.
He also ran the school’s juggling club and passed his Duke of Edinburgh gold expedition
“It’s important not just to develop your academic side but to be well-rounded and meet people and share interests,” he said.
He thanked his parents for their support.
His dad Glen said: “These must be some of the best results in the country and a great cause for celebration.
“Over the last two years he has been extremely focused and worked very hard for these results.
“He is a credit to his school and to the family.”