Shots of the century: From seaside fun to national disasters, an unparalleled photographic archive of the past 100 years opens to the public

Plus: win a framed print of one of the images

A scorching goal – CLICKETY-CLICK – a prime ministerial visit – CLICKETY-CLICK – freak weather conditions in Blackpool (you've guessed it) CLICKETY-CLICK. It takes only a split second to record a historical event; but appreciation of the act can last decades.

And through Press Association Images' print store (printstore.pressassociation. com), the public can now access the photography agency's extensive library of British newspaper shots from the past 100 years – and turn them into anything from framed prints and mouse mats to jigsaws.

"A photograph is a moment you can cherish for ever," says Martin Keene, PA's group picture editor. Here, we showcase 20 of the agency's brightest flashes of brilliance, frozen in time for your eternal edification.

Competition

The Independent on Sunday is able to offer its readers the chance for three of them each to win a framed print, courtesy of Press Association Images Print Store, of any of the thousands of images available on its website: printstore.pressassociation.com. To enter the draw, please email pacompetition@independent.co.uk by 5pm, Friday 4 September, with your home address and contact phone number. The first name randomly selected from the entries will win a framed 51cmx40cm print of their choice; the second, a framed 40cmx30cm print, the third, a framed 25x20cm print. The three winners will be notified by the following Friday 11 September.

Visitors to the Press Association Images Print Store can browse the galleries to find photos of key moments in UK news, sport and show-business history, as well as stunning artistic imagery and award winning images from Press Association’s talented photographers. The online store has an easy ordering system, taking customers through choosing a format for the print and previewing it, before completing the online secure payment and delivery steps. Prints can be delivered in 3 days within the UK and Ireland. The prints come in a range of sizes and formats, including framed and canvas print options, ranging from £5 up to £60 for a large size print and frame; many photos can also be applied to mouse mats, mugs and T-shirts.

Click here to email your entry for the draw - please include your phone number and home address in your entry.

Competition closes 4 September 2009.

For more information visit printstore.pressassociation.com

Competition winners will be notified on 9 September.