THE search begins this weekend for Bradford's next top models as an annual competition returns.

Kirkgate Shopping's popular contest is back for its 15th year and will be holding scouting days on Saturday, May 20, and on Saturday, May 27.

Modelsearch scouts include Kirkgate Shopping’s Catherine Riley, Sue Smith and Siobhan Willis, alongside Saskia Vasey of DK Models and Casting.

They will be scouring the centre for modelling talent who can then have their picture taken in a bid to be entered into the annual competition.

Organisers expect to receive more than 300 entries across four age categories, which are ages four to six, seven to ten, 11 to 15 and 16 plus.

Centre manager at Kirkgate Shopping, Catherine Riley, said: “We are thrilled to announce that Modelsearch is back for its 15th year.

“We are looking forward to seeing what our fifteenth year brings as the level of entries last year was impressive.

"The model search really is the highlight in the Kirkgate and Bradford calendar, the buzz of the shopping centre is incredible as the hopefuls bring along their supportive friends and family.”

The ten winners from last year included Georgia Hird, 17; Pollyanna Tait, 13; Ayesha Mariya, nine, and Lowen Newlone, five.

They featured on marketing materials and hoardings around the shopping centre and attended a professional photoshoot at Kirkgate Shopping.

Meanwhile, Ayesha and Charlie Bedford, ten, joined the books of Yorkshire-based agency DK Model and Casting for 12 months.

Previous winner Pollyanna Tait said: “I’ve always aspired to being a model and taking part in Modelsearch increased my confidence, gave me catwalk experience and now I have a professional portfolio.

"I encourage any budding selfie addict to come along and give Modelsearch a try.”

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to take part in the heats on June 10. The final will be held in the centre on July 2.