A COMPETITION is being launched today to try and find County Durham's next top model.

New-borns, toddlers and children up to the age of 13 can take part in the QT competition, which has been launched by Castle Dene Shopping Centre, in Peterlee, and Mentor Model Agency. 

Entry is free and One child from each of the three age categories (0-23 months, 2-5 and 6-13) will be chosen to be represented by Mentor for at least 12 months, which includes a portfolio photoshoot with digital images provided and displayed on the agency’s website.

Mentor Model Agency’s client list includes Boden, Mamas & Papas, Next, Silver Cross, Tomy, John Lewis, Very, F&F, Pretty Little Thing, Adidas, Footlocker & Franklin & Marshall.

Josephine Webster, company director at Mentor, said: “We are delighted to be working with Castle Dene Shopping Centre to discover new modelling talent in Peterlee.

“The winners could go on to work with some of the most high-profile fashion brands in the industry.”

“Competitions like these are a great platform to start a modelling career but it’s also lots of fun.”

Castle Dene centre manager, Suzanne Chaney, said: “We are extremely excited to launch the QT model search, which we anticipate being popular as we have already had a lot of interest on Facebook.

“Our Kids Club events are always well attended and I think the prizes provided by Mentor Model Agency will attract a lot of entries.

“I am confident it will be a success, but the main thing is that people have fun.”

Those wishing to enter can bring their children to be photographed today (Thursday) and tomorrow between 10am and 4pm.

Entry is free and the photography will take place in the retail unit next to Specsavers, located in The Chare.

More information is available of the shopping centre's Facebook page.