Britain’s biggest independent news agency has released its best pictures from 2019 - including images from across the world.

SWNS picture editors have put together a gallery of 100 eye-catching photos from stories it covered over the last year.

They include incredible images of people, animals and places shot from every angle - including above with drones.

From animals to planes to politicians to protests, the agency has eyes on a huge number of stories each day - as can be seen from the shortlist.

The SWNS Picture of the Year award is in its fifth year - and votes are already open on this year’s selection.

One of the images is a photograph of commuters dashing to avoid a rainstorm - which looks like a scene straight from a Lowry painting.

Another shows plane spotters in awe of the world’s most expensive and secretive plane - while it soars just 60ft over their heads

A third that made a splash around the world was an incredible picture showing a diver off the British coast swimming with a huge jellyfish.

Others include people from all walks of life dealing with issues such as cancer, disability - and potholes.

Jon Mills, SWNS picture editor, said: "For everyone working on the SWNS picture desk choosing this selection is the best fun we have all year.

"It is a real privilege to work with so many dedicated and talented photographers."

SWNS has network of newsrooms, reporters and photographers across eight major UK and US cities.

To see the full gallery and vote, visit https://swns.com/services/swns-picture-year/