A PHOTOGRAPHIC competition to capture the spirit of County Durham has been launched.

Durham County Council is looking for images that sum up life in the county for its 2005 calendar.

Marketing officer Andrew Dean said: "We want people in County Durham to think about what makes the county special to them and then capture it in a photograph.

"Our calendar is displayed all over the region in businesses and shops and it would be something special to have it filled with images taken by local people."

The competition is open to amateur and professional photographers of any age who live in County Durham and the best 12 will be selected for use in the calendar.

Winners will receive vouchers from national photographic chain Jessops and five runners-up will receive hardback copies of The County Durham Book.

Application forms are at libraries and the help desk at County Hall. The closing date is Monday, October 18