FOREIGN students have proved that York is best when it comes to post-school education.

The University of York topped the poll in the first International Student Awards, run by the British Council.

Of 1,700 nominations from 300 universities and colleges, only 50 students gained a highly commended award - including five from York.

The Yorkshire city's nearest rival, Edinburgh, managed only three awards.

Simon Willis, director of the

international office at York said: "We are delighted by the large number of York students whose achievements at the university have been recognised by the British Council.

"We have a rapidly-growing international community, but they are clearly well-integrated, highly-motivated, and love being in York.

"Congratulations to all of them."

The awards recognise overseas students who have achieved personal ambitions, or made contributions to their institution or community, or enjoyed new experiences since coming to the UK. York's fab five are:

- Song Wang, of China, taking an MA in educational studies, who hosts an informal international group in his kitchen, and has learned to cook in York

- Xun Dong, of China, studying for a BSc in computer science, who enjoys playing football

- Emily Price, of the USA, studying mediaeval archaeology, who sings in the university's Gilbert & Sullivan Society

- Shintaro Takashishi, of Japan, studying for a BA in social policy, who founded a Japanese society on campus and runs a website

- Merran Toerien, of South Africa, studying for a PhD in sociology, who is enraptured by English pubs, castles and fields.

Updated: 10:11 Wednesday, May 07, 2003