Former Western Telegraph photographer Hannah Kinver is snapping her way to success, after winning the NCTJ photographer of the year and being offered a job with The Times all in the same week.

Hannah cut her teeth at the Western Telegraph and after just two months editing pictures she became the paper’s photographer.

“I got thrown in at the deep end,” she said. “It was a good grounding. I loved it.”

Hannah attended a glittering awards ceremony for The Times/Canon Young Photographer of the Year Award 2009.

She was one of the six shortlisted photographers whose work was exhibited at the ceremony at Islington Design Centre.

Hannah narrowly missed out on the top prize, but The Times was so impressed with her work she was offered a three-day a week contract.

“I’m really delighted,” said Hannah. “It’s amazing. It’s something you always dream about. This is my ultimate job. Just to work there is fantastic.”

Still flushed with her success, Hannah received a letter from the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) the following day telling her she had won their prestigious photographer of the year award.

This is awarded to the best performing student in the National Certificate examination, Hannah received the highest marks on her course across the country.

“It’s nice to be recognised for all the hard work. I’m very pleased,” she said.

A selection of her work has also been shortlisted for the NCTJ image of the year award which will be announced on Saturday.

“It’s great to know that Hannah’s successful career began here,” said Western Telegraph editor, Fiona Phillips.

“All her old friends and colleagues here wish her every success.”