THREE pupils at a school near York did so well in their English Literature GCSEs that they were in the top five marks nationally for their examination board.

Caroline Gore Booth, Sophie Hignett and Hannah Hadlington, of Queen Margaret's School, Escrick, gained marks in the top five, out of no fewer than 379,017 candidates sitting the AQA Board exam this summer.

Head teacher Jill Norman said: "I am delighted for the girls. It is an incredible achievement."

There was also good news for the music department at the school. Two pupils, Charlotte Nettleship and Charlotte Ramsbotham, have successfully auditioned to join the National Youth Choir.

Both girls are members of the school's chapel choir.

Mrs Norman said: "The girls are looking forward to performing in the Birmingham Symphonic Hall next April. We are very proud of them."

Updated: 12:40 Wednesday, September 10, 2003