TENSION is building in households across south Essex.

Teenagers are on edge, awaiting the arrival of their A-level results later this week.

For many, good grades will be a passport to college or unversity, while others will use good results to make their way in the world of work.

And for those whose results are not as good as expected, help is at hand.

Schools and colleges have their own advisers available, while Connexions, an information and advice line for teenagers, will offer experts at the end of a phone.

Jean Meekings, Essex, Southend and Thurrock adviser for Connexions, said: "This can be a stressful time for young people, especially if they have not achieved their hoped-for grades and are having to rethink plans for the future.

"We encourage any young person in this situation to contact us for impartial advice and guidance to help reach the right decision."

If students fail to get the grades they were expecting then some will still find a university place through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service clearing system - universally known as Ucas.

South East Essex College in Southend is running a drop-in service from Wednesday to Friday as students get their results.

As well as advisers from Connexions, the college will have full clearing lists, computers and telephones available for calling universities.

Jane Belcher, careers officer, said: "This advice isn't just great for those students who have just received their A-level results, but also for the thousands who are also getting vocational results, such as Btec National Diplomas and Btec National Certificates.

"They are often the forgotten students when it comes to media coverage and advice, but many of them go on to study at university as well."

However, the most important piece of advice to all students is the simplest - Don't panic and think carefully about what to do next.

Mrs Belcher added her own advice: "Don't make rash decisions about your future. Think things through and seek advice from teachers or the careers department."

* Young people can contact Connexions for information and support from 8am to 2am, seven days a week, on 08080 013219.