THE future of Warrington looks bright as the town's pupils continue to set the standard in important exams.

Schools minister Jim Knight has welcomed a record proportion of 14-year-olds reaching and exceeding expectations for their age in maths and science.

And the Key Stage 3 result tables for 2006 show that Warrington's youngsters lead the way - performing well above the national average.

Clr Sheila Woodyatt, Warrington Borough Council's executive board member for children's services, said: "The first three years at high school - Key Stage 3 - are a vital stage towards pupils' eventual GCSE performance.

"These are excellent results and the trend is for year-on-year improvement. I would like to congratulate our pupils, schools and teachers on their hard work and achievements."

The Department for Education and Skills figures are based on tests taken by pupils last summer at the end of year nine.

In maths, 81 per cent achieved level five or above and, in science, 76 per cent achieved this level - both scores four per cent above the national average.

In English, 79 per cent of Warrington's pupils achieved level five or above - six per cent above the national average.

At the higher level six threshold, results are even stronger. Around 40 per cent achieved level six in English - six per cent above the national average.

In maths, 64 per cent achieved this grade, and in science 48 per cent, both figures seven per cent above the national average.