ALMOST half (48%) of pupils at Taunton School achieved A and A* grades at GCSE level.

The school is donating £462 to Motor Neuron Disease, having committed to give £1 for every A grade achieved.

Phylly Bluemel and Martha McPherson clocked up 10 A*s each, while Jess Topping had nine.

Headmaster Dr John Newton said; "I am delighted that nearly half of our pupils grades are A* and A Grades, once more highlighting the academic strength of our first year group to take on the International Baccalaureate.

"There are always notable achievements and after record A Level results last week it is a pleasure to pay tribute to the staff and pupils of Taunton School for all of their hard work.

"What better way than to make use of the very sound academic grounding that our pupils receive as a platform from which to help this charity's fundraising efforts?"

A cheque for £462 will be presented to Leza Holmes on behalf of the Motor Neuron Disease Association at a charity fundraiser ball, to be held at the school on September 8.