Thousands of nervous schoolchildren across Medway have collected their GCSE results today.

Pupils across the Towns ripped open their envelopes in the hope of high-scoring grades.

Pupils at Chatham South School, which will re-open in September as the Bishop of Rochester Academy, turned up early to collect their grades.

One pupil delighted with her results was Becca Mumford, 16, from Walderslade.

She took 15 exams and received As in maths, English, textiles and sport and will now to Mid-Kent College to study music and theatre.

Becca said: "I'm really pleased with my results; it means I can go to college. It's been hard work, but worth it. I want to become an actress and hopefully go on to appear in West End shows. "

Elsewhere at Chatham Grammar School for Girls results were the best yet.

The girls were so eager to get their hands on their grades, they all turned up early to be the first to open their envelopes.

At Chatham Grammar School for Girls Christine Probin, who will take over as head teacher in September, said she was proud of the girls' achievements.

She said: "The girls were very keen and nervous but overall did very well."

Our reporters have been out and about at schools, speaking to pupils and getting reaction. Pick up a copy of Friday's Medway Messenger for our GCSEs special.

Any pupils wanting advice on what to do next should get in contact with the careers advice service Connexions.

Audio: Connexions careers guidance advisor Lizzie Roser

The Connexions Kent and Medway telephone helpline is 01622 683155 or visit http://www.connexionskentandmedway.co.uk/

You can also visit www.kentchoices4u.com for information on courses and training opportunities across Kent.

Do you have a message for anyone getting their results today or know of a great GCSE story? Post a comment below.