A BRAINY Lindal student was smiling after A Level success at the young age of 17.

Rebecca Lloyd nervously opened her envelope at Ulverston Victoria High School this morning to read she had been awarded four A*s and one A.

But she is a whole year ahead of most other students, after being moved up in early primary school, meaning when she goes to Cambridge University in September she will only be 17.

She said: “I went up a year when I very young so I have always been the youngest and it’s never really made much difference. I think during freshers week will be the first time I notice.”

Rebecca, who will go on to study natural sciences, said she did put in the study hours.

“It’s really nice to have done so well because I did work really hard - I’m glad it has paid off.

“And all my friends did well so we can celebrate together - I’ve not seen anyone cry and everyone I know got into the university’s they wanted to.

“I am so excited to be going to Cambridge - I think it’s such an amazing chance.”