DECORATIVE gardens surrounding a Medieval manor house have become something of a crystal maze.

Fourteen glass artists from across the North-East are displaying examples of their latest work in the walled gardens of Crook Hall, in Durham.

Members of the regional glassmakers' network Cohesion, a mix of internationally renowned and emerging artists from the North-East, have created innovative pieces for the setting.

Dotted among, and between, its secret walled garden, the Shakespeare garden, the wildflower meadow, the orchard and maze are an array of glass sculptures, garden furniture and more decorative pieces.

The display, Ever Changing Light, was put in place over the weekend and can be viewed by visitors to the the 13th Century manor house until the end of June.

Anne Tye, regional glass cluster development manager, said: "We are always looking for new opportunities to introduce people to glass and the exhibition is a great way to demonstrate its versatility and durability, as well as to show the exciting work being produced by artists in this region.

"Crook Hall is a fantastic setting and the glassmakers were very enthusiastic about it."

Maggie and Keith Bell, the owners of the Grade I-listed hall, said they were immediately taken by the idea when approached by Ms Tye.

Mrs Bell said: "We always aim to offer our visitors something different to do, while keeping activities in context with the beautiful surroundings, and Ever Changing Light is the perfect event for Crook Hall."

The hall and gardens, in Sidegate, off Frankland Lane, Durham, are open each day, except Saturdays, from 1pm to 5pm.