A GIRL diagnosed with thyroid cancer who has spent the last year receiving treatment is celebrating after securing exceptional GCSE results.

Srimukhi Kalakonda received the diagnosis last summer, one week before the start of the school year - continuing her studies while recovering from surgery.

The 16-year-old from Brighton College secured two Grade 9s - the highest grade, as well as four Grade 8s and one Grade 7.

Sri was overjoyed by her results and said: “I am so happy, I really can’t believe it.

“It is better than anything I could have imagined.”

Her father, who was also diagnosed with cancer two weeks before Sri, said that it had been a “very tough time for the family”.

“Sri has been incredible - we are so, so proud of her achievements,” he said.

The Argus: Sri Kalakonda celebrated after securing two Grade 9s and four Grade 8s in her GCSE resultsSri Kalakonda celebrated after securing two Grade 9s and four Grade 8s in her GCSE results

Chris Fowler, head of year at the independent school, said: “Sri has been absolutely incredible this year.

“She is the heart and soul of her year group and has inspired friends and teachers with her determination and strength.

“We are so proud of her - she absolutely deserves these results.”

Students across the county have received their GCSE results, with some bucking the national trend which saw a drop in the top grades.

Brighton College saw over 1,000 Grade 9 results obtained by students, with 77 children receiving Grade 9 and Grade 8, equivalent to an A*, in every subject.

Headmaster Richard Cairns said: “Given the difficulties faced by these children during two lockdowns, it is remarkable to see so many pupils achieving even more than they might have anticipated. I really am delighted for them.”