TWO people from Bridgwater have been named among Somerset's top learning stars at a special ceremony hosted by the Learning Skills Council.

The 2007 Champions of Learning Awards saw 20 learners pick up prestigious awards from television presenter and former British tennis champion Andrew Castle.

Amongst those receiving engraved glass trophies was Michael Westlake, who came top in the category Apprentice of the Year.

A third year advanced apprentice at Bridgwater College, Michael is employed by British Energy where he is training as a multi-skilled maintenance engineer.

He was nominated by Sarah Meade from the college, who described him as "an apprentice who benefits others in many ways setting an example both at college and in the workplace".

Jane Canham, who also studies at Bridgwater College, was the winner of the Achieving Skills for Life category.

Through the college's outreach centre, Jane enrolled in a Skills for Life course.

Described by Anne Javis, her nominator, as a "hardworking and determined learner", she achieved her level two literacy, is working towards her level two in numeracy, and hopes to gain her level two tutor support certificate for working with adults.

The event aims to recognise special achievements in the world of learning - sometimes against extraordinary odds.

Employers, colleges, learning providers or individuals across Somerset nominated people for the awards in seven different categories.