NUMBER crunchers at Halesowen College chalked up success at the UK national maths challenge.

Eight students had their logic and mathematical skills in problem solving put to the test under exam conditions.

Seventeen-year-old Jiahao Zhang and 16-year-olds Reece Meek, Cameron Kemp and Bradley Cox clinched silver awards.

Bronze awards were gained by John Jain, aged 19, James Cole, aged 18, James Bateman and Emma Cooper, both aged 16.

It was the first time students from the college had entered the event, set by Leeds University in conjunction with the Actuarial Society.

Head of maths Dr Richard Jones said: "I'm delighted our students have done so well in this challenge, given that it is very challenging. I am very proud of this success which shows our students have great skills in mathematics.”