For many in the States, the 50s were the rock and roll years, the 'fabulous 50s' - a new age of prosperity and freedom, cruising the open roads with the radio turned up and the windows rolled down. Drive-ins and diners were part of this flourishing roadside culture: they were places to hang out, show off your wheels and your girl, or get a hot meal and a coffee to break your life- affirming journey across state.

Of course the traditional US diner was around well before all this. Its sleek steel styling reflects its railroad heritage, modelled on original dining cars from the American railway. In fact many of the earliest road side diners started life as a railroad dining car before being decommissioned and then re-sited by an aspiring restaurateur as a cheap way to set up in business.

During the 70s and 80s nostalgic US TV shows such as 'Happy Days, and films like 'American Graffiti' and 'Diner' reinforced the idea of a diner as a great place to meet with friends, relax and eat at the heart of a community. Today, the diner remains an iconic image in popular culture and its appeal is as strong as ever, both to the young and those who are simply young at heart!

Have you been cruising round the States lately? Visited any good diners or been wowed by the vast landscapes? Captured a slice of American life that you just want to share? Email your best photos to us at OK Diner and your picture could appear on this site!

Feeling lucky? Then send us your pic and be in with a chance of winning a fantastic Limited Edition Red Ipod Nano courtesy of Heinz.

Judging will take place shortly after the closing date of 31st December 2008 and the winner will be notified by email.