A Bradford shopping centre will take on the appearance of a Milan fashion show as would-be models parade on a catwalk on Monday.

The catwalk, with full lighting and sound, is being built in the Kirkgate Centre for the heats of the Telegraph & Argus Model Search competition.

More than 400 contestants are taking part in the heats which will be compered by Model Search director Michael Knowles.

Those judged to have the best looks and personalities will compete in the grand final at the Kirkgate Centre next Saturday.

About 100 people were entered for the competition after being spotted during a scouting day in the shopping centre last weekend.

Grand finalists will be competing to win vouchers to spend at shops in the Kirkgate Centre as well as getting the chance to be considered by Nemesis Model Agency which has offices in Leeds, Manchester and Birming-ham.

Competition co-ordinator Michael Tierney, of Messages Public Relations Limited, said the heats would be exciting and good fun.

He said: "I'm sure that everyone will enjoy the day and make friends.

"It may seem like a nerve-racking experience but once people settle in it will be fine."

Entry to the competition was open to potential models of all ages, heights and sizes, who live and work in the Bradford district.

The times of the heats are:

lAges four to six, from 11am to 12pm.

lAges seven to ten, from 12pm to 1pm.

lAges 11 to 15, from 1pm to 2.30pm

lAdult male and female, from 2.30pm to 4pm.