ONLINE learning firm Bourne Training has been bought by competitor Redtray for an undisclosed sum.

Bourne Training, which was established in 1982, provides custom-built online and e-Learning programmes to clients such as insurance giant Zurich, National Air Traffic Services and Southampton University Hospitals Trust.

Bourne Training will continue to trade independently under the Bourne brand for the foreseeable future.

Redtray, which was ranked fifth in the Sunday Times 2006 Tech Trak 100, offers classroom courses and web-based applications for blue chip clients The companies said their services complemented each others offering.

The deal was led by John Foundling, corporate finance partner at Whiteley-based accountants MorleyandScott, which specialises in deals up to £10m.

Amanda Brockwell and Anita Choi of Coffin Mew & Clover Solicitors also worked on the deal. Redtray were advised by Saffrey Champness and Laytons Solicitors in London.

John Foundling commented, "I have grown close to the Bourne team over the past few years and it has brought me particular pleasure helping them reach their personal goals thus far.

"There is a constant and growing need for training and development and the combination of Bourne and Redtray's unique ability to satisfy that demand will see them continue to go from strength to strength as they benefit together from this deal."