Stroud District Council's tourism team have launched a photo competition to source new images that will help them promote the area.

They are encouraging people to head out with their cameras over the next couple of months, or to look through the photos they have taken over the last year, and submit their best shots.

The first prize package will include a half-day photography tutorial provided by Clifton Cameras in Dursley, dinner for two in a local restaurant and a signed book by head judge Nick Turner.

The winning entry will be featured on the home page of www.visitthecotswolds.org.uk  and used to help promote the district to visitors.

Shirley Wood, tourism officer at Stroud District Council, said: "Great quality images are so important now to promote the area online and in print.

"We're on the lookout for beautiful landscapes, colourful events, local wildlife and lovely towns and villages."

The judging panel will include award-winning local photographer Nick Turner who produced the Stroud district tourism film earlier this year, as well as photographers Alexander Caminada and Kel Portman.

Wendy Williams, director of Clifton Cameras, said: "We're delighted to support the Stroud District Photography Competition and encourage local photographers to get out and gain some new perspectives on our beautiful area."

The competition is open from today (December 1) to January 31, 2018.

Entrants will need to submit their photograph online. Please see further information and how to submit your photo at www.visithecotswolds.org.uk/photocompetition . Terms & conditions apply.

The tourism team will be promoting the competition on their Facebook (www.facebook.com/discoverstroud ) and Twitter pages (www.facebook.com/discoverstroud ) using #strouddistrictphotocomp

Picture caption: A stunning photograph by the competition's head judge Nick Turner.