BOLTON Wanderers star Tal Ben Haim was on the ball at an awards ceremony to recognise the achievements of apprentices and adult learners who are on course to achieving their career goals.

Two hundred invited guests met at the Reebok Stadium for the annual awards evening of Bolton training specialist Alliance Learning.

The organisation provides vocational training and advice for businesses and local people. It specialises in apprenticeships and commercial training courses and operates from offices in Horwich, Bolton town centre, Bury and Leigh.

Wanderers defender Tal Ben Haim was on hand to present plaques and cash awards to the winners, while former Houghton Weaver, Norman Prince kept the audience entertained as a raffle generated £350 for Bolton Hospice, Alliance Learning's nominated charity.

Apprentice of the Year was Gemma Monday, from First Steps Day Nursery in Lowton. Other winners included Bolton-based Gresham Office Furniture, who won the Company Award For Training and Development. Alliance Learnings Les Heyes won Employee of the Year

Alliance Learning's Chief Executive David Guthrie said: "The evening was a great success as we celebrated the outstanding achievements of successful learners across the board."