THE Kirkgate Centre in Bradford enjoyed a record-breaking year in its popular Modelsearch competition.

There were eight winners - two from each of the four categories - chosen from more than 400 entrants into the contest that is held each year at the city centre shopping venue.

Centre manager Catherine Riley said: "It was amazing. We had the highest number of entrants ever, well over 400. Everybody loves it."

There were four age group categories in the competition: four to six years; seven to ten years; 11 to 15 years; and 16 years plus. There was a boy and girl winner in each.

Lola Wood, four, of Eccleshill, and five-year-old Mackenzie Pell, of Bradford, were the winners in the youngest category. Shania Howard, eight, of Allerton, and Ellis Lumb, seven, of Eccleshill, won the seven to ten years' group.

The 11 to 15 years section was won by 14-year-old Holly Amelia Daniel, of Bradford Moor, and 15-year-old Aadam Qayum, of Bradford. The oldest category was won by Emily Lamb, 17, of Leeds, and University of Bradford student Bowlaver Rathoer, 24, of Bradford.

The aspiring models can now look forward to a professional photoshoot and a portfolio as their prize. The photoshoot will take place at the Kirkgate Centre next month.

Michael Knowles, of Modelsearch, said: "Once again we had an amazing turn out for our Modelsearch finals. This event always has such huge support from family and friends of those taking part.

"This year we have added a professional photoshoot for our winners and the models will each receive a selection of their photos as part of their prize.

"Photos taken at the shoot will also be used for marketing and advertising for the Kirkgate Centre over the next year so we will definitely be seeing more of these faces."

Mrs Riley said: "We have done it a little differently this year in that the two winners in each category get a photoshoot and a portfolio, The portfolio is quite valuable.

"It is the first time we have done it this way. We have given cash prizes in the past but this is worth more than the cash prize.

"We will use the photos from the photoshoot in our publicity campaigns."

She added: "In some respects it is not about who won. Everyone who went on that catwalk is a winner. It is always wonderful with such a good atmosphere. Everyone was cheering everyone else on - everyone was really encouraging. We love doing it."