THE Evening Times has snapped up more nominations than any Scottish newspaper for the country's most prestigious photography awards.

Our photographers have been shortlisted for six prizes at this year's First ScotRail Press Photography Awards.

Martin Shields is in the frame for News Picture of the Year for his picture of a triumphant Tommy Sheridan emerging from court with his wife Gail minutes after the MSP's defamation victory last year. Nick Ponty's portfolio

Nick Ponty has been nominated for Sports Photographer of the Year for a collection of shots, which include Hearts celebrating their Scottish Cup victory in May, and French star David Trezeguet executing an overhead kick against Scotland at Hampden.

Our new recruit Jamie Simpson is in the running for three of the biggest categories, Photographer of the Year, Picture Essay of the Year, and Features Photographer of the Year.

And former Evening Times photographer Kieran Dodds also picked up a nomination for work he did for our features pages.

Ken Lennox, chairman of the judging panel, said: "We have seen some outstanding images across all categories.

"Those who have made it on to the shortlist are to be congratulated, as the competition is extremely tough.

"It's also good to see so many strong entries from young photographers.

"They are the future of our industry and I'm confident we are in safe hands."

Penny Lancaster, the professional photographer and fiancee of Rod Stewart, is on the judging panel along with a host of industry experts.

Evening Times picture editor John Young said: "I am highly delighted and proud our team has been shortlisted for these prestigious awards." Jamie Simpson's portfolio

They will be presented at Glasgow City Chambers on April 4.

Our sister papers The Herald and Sunday Herald have also been nominated.

The Evening Times has also been shortlisted for three prizes at this year's Scottish Press Awards which take place next month.

Scotland's biggest selling evening newspaper is in the running for Campaign of the Year, Front Page of the Year and Reporter of the Year at the ceremony on April 19.