For one student getting his A-level results, today was the end of a long road, overcoming physical as well as mental challenges.

Paul Davis, 48, of East Dean, near Eastbourne, had a horrific car accident two and a half years ago forcing him to re-think his life.

Mr Davis, a former IT manager in Europe, had a leg almost severed when a car hit him.

He decided to return to college where he took A-levels in law and psychology and an AS level in critical thinking at Sussex Downs College in Eastbourne.

Today he discovered he had gained two Bs in law and critical thinking and a C in psychology.

He said: "I decided to concentrate on psychology with a view to becoming an occupational psychologist. When I did O-levels and went to college last time, compared to now, it was definitely not easier.

"But you do get more support and feel less isolated."

Mr Davis said he didn't feel sorry for himself and didn't consider himself a brave man.

Kimberly Webb, 25, from Eastbourne, a former Cavendish School pupil, gained As in law, English and psychology.

Kimberly had two false starts at college but left her job as a receptionist at the David Lloyd Sports Club to return to Sussex Downs College. She will use her qualifications to go to UCL.

Jo Stoner, 18, of Latimer Road, Eastbourne, was delighted at her result of three As in English, law and an AS in psychology.

She said: "I'll definitely be going out tonight, probably on a pub crawl to celebrate."

Jo hopes to go to Bristol to study politics.

Thousands of students crammed college halls up and down the country for the results which meant a yes or no to preferred universities.

In Eastbourne, pupils from Sussex Downs College, Cross Levels Way, Park College, Kings Drive, Moira House, Carlisle Road and Eastbourne College, Old Wish Road, returned, hopefully, for the final time to their old colleges and schools for results.

Tears flowed and champagne corks popped as students celebrated or commiserated with each other.

Staff at Sussex Downs campus reported a general increase in the number of passes at both the Lewes and the Eastbourne campus, with an overall pass rate of 96 per cent.

Students at the Eastbourne campus managed an overall pass rate of more than 92 per cent, while those studying at the Lewes building achieved 98 per cent of passes, two per cent up on last year's results.

Principal Dr John Blake said: "I am extremely pleased for all of the students who have worked so hard to achieve this excellent set of results and who are now able to progress on to their chosen university or career.

"Staff who have offered inspiration and guidance are very proud and join me in wishing all of them the very best for exciting futures."

At Moira House Girls School, staff recorded the best results ever attained by students, with a pass rate of 99 per cent.

More than 78 per cent of candidates achieved grades at A,B or C.

Sixty-one per cent attained passes at A or B and 33 per cent of candidates achieved an A grade for their exams.

At Park College it was a similar story with a pass rate of 97 per cent.

Park College vice principal Mike Dixon said: "It really has been another great year for our students, and a 97.5 per cent pass rate is remarkable.

"The students have shown great commitment throughout the two years and deserve the excellent results awarded.

"I would also like to pay tribute to the teaching staff who have encouraged and cajoled the students to achieve these results."