A GROUP of the region's most talented glass artists are attempting to break into the national market at an exclusive exhibition in London's Mayfair.

The exhibition -Blast! 2004 -will give 22 of the North-East's leading glassmakers an opportunity to break on to the national scene.

The show, which takes place until Saturday, has been organised by Cohesion, the Sunderland-based network that represents Northern glassmakers.

It is designed to raise the profile of the North-East's thriving glass industry, showcasing a variety of work, including jewellery, perfume bottles, large vessels, engraved work and free-standing sculptures.

Cohesion co-ordinator and exhibition organiser Anne Tye said: "Our first London exhibition was in March last year and, since then, we have organised lots of showcases for our makers.

"This is certainly one of our strongest exhibitions yet and includes some excellent work from our new graduates, as well as showing new directions from our existing businesses."