A Blackburn headteacher has revealed how he feels "privileged" to work with his students.

Lee Harris, head at Blakewater College, Blackburn, made his comments at the school's annual presentation night after seeing continued improvements at GCSE level.

Since the Shadsworth Road school replaced failing Queen's Park Technology College in April 2005, the number of pupils gaining five or more GCSEs at A to C has shot up from 22 per cent to 52 per cent.

Mr Harris told the outgoing students and guests in the main hall that the results were "an outstanding achievement."

And he stressed: "You (the students) have helped make Blakewater College a real success in its first year, your support, suggestions for improvements and hard work have made a real difference.

"The results achieved speak for themselves and set an excellent example of what can be achieved by working together.

"The staff are very proud of your achievements, as you should be."

He added: "It has been a privilege to work with you."

Guest of honour was ex-Rovers defender Craig Short.