TEENAGERS in Gloucestershire are among the smartest in the country, figures have revealed.

Results from last summer's GCSE tests released on Thursday show Gloucestershire schools were second in the south west for pupils achieving five GCSE passes at grades A* to C, including English and Maths.

The county is also in the top 25 per cent of local authorities nationally - 33rd out of 152 local authorities.

In 2012, 62.3 per cent of Gloucestershire pupils achieved at least five GCSE passes at grades A* to C, including English and Maths, compared to 58.4 per cent of students nationally.

Councillor Jackie Hall, cabinet member for education and skills at Gloucestershire County Council, said: "It is pleasing to see Gloucestershire's results are again well ahead of the national average and we're leading the way in the region.

"I would like to congratulate all the young people on their results. These results are a testament to all the hard work of pupils and staff."