Image by 2009 winnerAn image taken by last year’s winner, Matt Lloyd, during his stint on The Times

The Times newspaper is on the look out for its 9th Young Photographer of the Year.

Up for grabs is a six-month placement with the paper – where the winner will receive photojournalism training – plus a Canon EOS 5D Mark II DSLR kit.

The contest is open to UK and Republic of Ireland residents aged 18-26 and runs until 31 August.

Judging will take place in September when six finalists will be set an assignment by the newspaper?s picture editor Paul Sanders.

Last year?s winner was Matthew Lloyd.

The competition officially opens tomorrow.

Details of the contest will appear at www.timesonline.co.uk/youngphotographer