JULIE Connolly has become the new deputy chief executive at Horwich-based training specialist Alliance Learning.

Ms Connolly has been with Alliance Learning for more than a decade and is confident she can help drive the business even further forward - with the support of the 91-strong workforce.

Alliance Learning is a charitable organisation managed by a group of member companies. It provides vocational training and advice for businesses and local people and has satellite centres at Bolton, Radcliffe and Leigh.

Ms Connolly will continue in her existing role as divisional executive in the commercial side of the business.

She has been with Alliance Learning for 11 years, initially working as sales manager.

Ms Connolly said: "When I started, there were just five of us in sales.

"We have now grown to 14, in addition to having developed a flourishing marketing department."