MOST of East Lancashire's university places have already been filled — before pupils' A-level results are revealed today.

Only degree programmes such as computer programming, policing and eastern fashion are left at the University of Central Lancashire’s Burnley campus.

The University Centre at Blackburn College has a number of places on the majority of its courses, but bosses have revealed they will not be lowering the entry requirements for those courses available through clearing.

However they are encouraging students who do not make the grades today not to give up on a university place but persevere.

The Burnley centre has accepted 300 per cent more applications from A-level students compared to last year and will see student numbers rise to around 1,000 in the Princess Way site from September.

But overall the university has received more than five applications for each one of its places. If bosses exceed those limits they face financial penalties.

Dr Martin Brown, University of Central Lancashire’s director for the Burnley campus, said: “My message to students entering clearing is not to give up looking for a place.

"Look on the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services, or UCAS, website to see which courses are still available and then call universities advertising vacancies.

"I would urge local applicants looking for a place at our Burnley campus to ring us as soon as possible.”

Yana Williams, vice-principal for quality and development for Blackburn College, said: “University Centre at Blackburn College has some clearing place savailable, as a result of the increase in numbers allocated to the college this year. As always we consider applications on an individual basis so if a student doesn't quite have the grades but has suitable relevant work experience then it is still worth applying."

Click here to view our A Level results gallery, which will be updated throughout the day.