EIGHT pupils of The King's School, Worcester, became part of a tradition dating back to the days of Henry VIII.

The four boys and four girls have become King's and Queen's Scholars.

There are currently 26 King's and Queen's Scholars at the school. They had to impress teachers with their scholarly qualities when they were 13 or else prove over the years until they were 17 that their commitment to their work was first class.

King's and Queen's scholars regularly win places at Oxford and Cambridge and other top universities.

The ceremony was held last Friday in front of King John's tomb. They then celebrated their new status in a reception in the College Hall.

In 1541, Henry VIII refounded the school, which had previously been run as part of the monastery. He granted a number of scholarships, which began the tradition.