THIS talented teenager overcame a mild form of autism to gain six A-levels.

Malton School pupil Russell Goddard scooped six A-levels last week, despite having Asperger's Syndrome, which is on the autistic spectrum.

People with Asperger Syndrome find it difficult to talk to other people or to make friends, and also tend to have poor co-ordination and concentration, so studying was made all the harder for Russell.

Coun John Watson, North Yorkshire County Council's education boss, paid tribute to the achievements of Russell and other successful North Yorks students.

He said: "Our students have worked extremely hard to pursue demanding programmes of study, supported by committed teachers and support staff, parents and governors and the local authority."