Bradford's beautiful people came out in force to wow the crowds at the heats of the Telegraph & Argus Model Search competition.

Around 450 contestants donned their hippest clothes, put their hair in the latest showbiz styles and generally looked a million dollars as they took to the catwalk in the Kirkgate Centre.

A crowd of about 300 people watched the contestants on the catwalk, which was constructed in the shopping centre especially for the heats.

Shoppers stopped to stare at the modelling hopefuls who took to the stage with confidence, a swagger and plenty of smiles.

And proud parents, partners and friends screamed like mad as their favourite beauty tried to impress the judging panel.

The heats were split into four categories:

l Ages four to seven;

l Ages seven to ten;

l Ages 11 to 15; and

l Adult male and female.

Model Search director Michael Knowles was on hand to act as compere for the event and he helped to ease the nerves as hundreds of beady eyes watched the wannabe models strut their stuff.

Around 130 people were picked by the judges to come back for the grand final, also at the Kirkgate Centre, on Saturday, when vouchers to spend at shops in the centre will be up for grabs.

Grand finalists will also get the chance to be considered by Nemesis Model Agency, which has offices in Leeds, Manchester and Birmingham.

A male and female winner will be selected from each category in the grand final.

Competition co-ordinator Michael Tierney, of Messages Public Relations Limited, said he was impressed with the standard of entry in the heats.

"Contestants really did come out of the woodwork for this event," said Mr Tierney. "It's good that so many people who actually registered actually appeared on the day and the standard was very high.

"Everyone had a good time. Obviously some people are disappointed but everyone seemed to enjoy themselves, which is the main thing.

"I thought the entrants were really strong and it was good that people of so many cultures and colours in Bradford attended."

The Kirkgate Centre's manager Catherine Riley, one of the judge's for the day, said: "I think the whole thing has been absolutely fantastic. So many people applied and it has just been overwhelming.

"It proves what talent there is in Bradford. It has also been good because the centre and all the shops have been open today and it shows that it is worth coming into the city because there are always exciting things going on."

Gemma Knott, 14, who was selected to go through to the grand final in the 11 to 15 category, said her ambition is to become a full-time model.

"I'm really into modelling and it's all I've ever wanted to do," said Gemma who attends Wyke Manor School.

Proud mum Wendy said: "I just can't believe it. I'm really excited and I've got butterflies in my stomach."

And there's one thing for certain in the grand final on Saturday - Bradford at its most beautiful will definitely be on show.