A promising medical student with dreams of becoming a heart surgeon has been presented with the Queen's Gold Medal for outstanding A-level results.

Eastern Daily Press: Andrew Cole with headteacher Michael Douglass and parents Julie and Paul Cole. Picture: Matthew Usher.Andrew Cole with headteacher Michael Douglass and parents Julie and Paul Cole. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © Archant Norfolk 2012)

Andrew Cole, a former pupil at King Edward VII School in King's Lynn, received the award during an audience with the Queen at Sandringham House yesterday (Sunday).

The 19-year-old is reading medicine at University College London (UCL) after gaining A grades in biology, chemistry, physics, maths and general studies, as well as a grade A in AS level business studies.

Andrew, from South Wootton, was joined by his parents, Julie and Paul, and KES headteacher Michael Douglass for the presentation.

During their time together, the Queen asked him about university life and chatted about developments at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge.

'She was very friendly,' he said. 'I'm going to take my medal back to London and keep it in my room to motivate me.

'I'm really enjoying my course and they are certainly keeping us very busy.'

Mrs Cole said it had been a surreal but very special experience for the family. 'We got to speak to the Queen as well, so it was wonderful,' she added. 'She is very good at putting people at ease.

'We are so proud of Andrew and we know how hard he has worked.'

Andrew was looking forward to lunch with his parents in Ely before catching a train back to the capital.

Mr Douglass said the award was testament to all Andrew's hard work while he was a pupil at KES.

'It's a great privilege to be able to share this with the family and it's always a wonderful experience,' he added.