ST MARY'S COLLEGE, GALWAY: Relief at completing the first paper in the exam was the dominant feeling among the boys of St Mary's College in Galway city as the pupils emerged front the first English paper before lunch yesterday.

Not even the first constant rain in weeks could dampen their spirits, with few of them having to return after lunch for the home economics paper.

There were few complaints either about the first English paper, with most agreeing that it was fair.

"I could have done with some more time," said Neil Grogan from Dangan.

"But it was fair enough. The comprehension was a bit tough but overall it wasn't too bad," added Neil, who hopes to do commerce in college.

Conor Costello from Castlegar, who hopes to be a physiotherapist, said the paper was along expected lines, although the absence of a picture question was something of a surprise.

"We expected one and that would have allowed for a more broad answer. But it wasn't bad and there is just relief to have the first one out of the way," he said.

Eamon Flood, also from Castlegar and who also hopes to study commerce, was glad he did not have to do another exam in the afternoon.

"The English paper was fine, although I could have done with a bit more time. But it would be pretty hectic if we had to do another in the afternoon. I'm glad we have that time," he said.

School principal Bartley Fannin agreed that spreading English and other subjects over two days was a help to students.

"It is a good idea and the students will benefit.

"It is just such a big relief to them to have the first one out of the way.

"Overall, the reaction from students coming out has been very good.

"The general feeling is that it was a fair paper," he said.

Mr Fannin urged his pupils to stick to their study routine from here on and take each paper in turn. "There should be no analysis or postmortems. Let them stick to their routine, eat well, rest and get fresh air and exercise. Just apply common sense and they will do fine," he said.