A NORTH Ayrshire footballer has enjoyed a successful return home this off-season.

Liverpool wonderkid, and Dalry boy, Ben Doak passed his driving test in Irvine last month.

Before he returns to Merseyside to be put through his paces ahead of the new Premier League season, the footballer had training of a different kind here in Ayrshire.

The 17-year-old completed an intensive course with driving instructor Fiona McDonald, of Irvine based Greer's Gears Driving School, to set him up for his big test date on Tuesday, June 27.

Despite playing in an Old Firm derby for Celtic aged just 16, and signing for European giants Liverpool that same year, we're sure it was still a nervous experience for the talented teen.

But his hard work, and Fiona's teaching, certainly paid off as the tricky winger earned himself a first-time pass in the automatic car.

Delighted intructor Fiona, and Greer's Gears own Chris Greer, congratulated Ben with a post on the driving school's Facebook page.

They said: "It’s a busy day for the auto car with congratulations going to Ben Doak who passed on his first attempt in Irvine this afternoon.

"Ben completed an intensive course over the last week, long days but it paid off, enjoy your new car, pleasure to help you gain at pass, safe travels."

For more information on Greer's Gears Driving School, visit their Facebook page facebook.com/greersgears/.