Snap-happy visitors from across the globe are being urged to capture their favourite areas of Saltaire on film.

Anne Heald, manager of Saltaire Tourist Information and gift shop in Victoria Road, has launched a photographic competition in celebration of Saltaire's recently allocated World Heritage Site status.

The purpose-built mill village, established by the industrialist Sir Titus Salt in the 19th century, won the top title in December last year, putting it on the international map.

Now Mrs Heald is giving out free disposable cameras to everyone who takes part in one of the village tours. The idea is for them to photograph areas of the village, and the pictures will appear in a book to mark the bicentenary of Sir Titus Salt's birthday next year.

"It's fantastic news that Saltaire has this title, which ranks it alongside the Pyramids and the Taj Mahal. Now we need to do all we can to celebrate this and push it," said Mrs Heald.

"There is so much to see in Saltaire, and what is particularly interesting to one person might not be to another, but we would like to see pictures from people of all ages and backgrounds."

Mrs Heald said the village tours were popular with people from all over the world.

"Students from Hong Kong University come once a year and we have visitors from across Europe, USA and Canada," she said.

"Since gaining this status we've had a 50 per cent increase in calls from people interested in the village and its rich history."

Councillor David Ford (Green, Shipley West) said Saltaire was a very photogenic village.

He said: "I'm sure people will be spoilt for choice.

''There is Salts Mill, the United Reformed Church,and the lions are also very popular with children."

Coun Ford added: "It's an excellent way of marking World Heritage Status, as it will be a lasting one.

''Hopefully people living and working in the village will also take part, as they have contributed to the village."

The competition will run until November and the winner will receive a weekend break for two in one of the village's cottages.

Hour-long organised tours for educational and interest groups during the week can be booked through the Tourist Information office. Tours for four or more people are held at weekends.

Photographs should be sent to the office in Victoria Road and marked Photo Competition with name, age, address and telephone numbers included.

For details ring (01274) 774993.