BOURNE Training, which is based at Romsey, has merged with Sunday Times Top Five company, Redtray.

The deal was completed for an undisclosed sum by John Foundling, corporate finance partner at Whiteley-based MorleyandScott.

Bourne was established in 1982 to provide custom-built on-line and e-Learning programmes.

Its clients include Zurich, Learndirect, National Air Traffic Services and Southampton University Hospitals Trust.

Redtray's strength in classroom courses and web-based applications for blue-chip clients complements those of Bourne, which will continue to trade independently.

Mr Foundling worked with Amanda Brockwell and Anita Choi, of Coffin Mew & Clover Solicitors, and Bourne Training's auditors, while Redtray were advised by Saffrey Champness and Laytons Solicitors.

Mike Ditchburn, who continues as MD, said: "I am delighted to merge Bourne with such a pre-eminent company. John Foundling helped us to research a whole range of opportunities before steering us to the right one. His experience and project management skills contributed significantly in bringing the deal together and driving it to completion."