OUR congratulations go today to Worcestershire’s A-level students who are celebrating some fantastic exam results.

Although there is some number-crunching still to be done as results from the county’s schools and sixth form colleges are collated, it looks certain that this year’s performance is at least as good if not better than last year.

The record pass rates nationwide will, we are sure, bring the usual suspects out of the woodwork to moan and whinge that A-levels have been dumbed down and are easier to pass. We disagree totally with such views.

Today’s A-level students should be able to celebrate their success without it being spoilt by those with nothing better to do than complain. There is enough bad news about kids these days. The good news should be embraced.

The excellent results achieved by teenagers across the county are the result of hard work and dedication. These youngsters cannot go back in time to sit exams from decades ago – they can only be judged by today’s standards.

The parents of A-level students will know the stresses and strains their youngsters have been under as they went through the exam process. Those who have come out the other side with the grades they wanted can now look forward to degree courses that will set them on the path to successful careers.

Today we salute them – and reserve a special mention for the teachers and parents who have helped them on their way.