A-level results in Barking and Dagenham have increased for the fifth year running, preliminary results show.

The council is currently totting up the final figures, but schools across the borough told the Post yesterday they had improved on last years’ grades which saw 97.4 per cent of students receiving A* to E grades.

Cllr Rocky Gill, cabinet member for education and children, said: “Congratulations to students on their results and I wish them every success in the future. I would like to thank teaching staff and parents for their support.

“The results have increased for the fifth year running. This is a fantastic achievement and shows how education in the borough is improving.”