BIRMINGHAM, England, Jan. 8 -- The Midlands Photonics Cluster and the United Kingdom Laser and Electro-Optics Association (UKLEO) have joined forces as the Photonics Cluster. The groups said the merger will allow members to work together to create a UK-wide network for companies in the opto-electronics and photonics sector. The Photonics Cluster -- previously Midlands Photonics Cluster -- based at Aston Science Park near Birmingham, offers a focal point for photonics companies and academic institutions within the Midlands. Glenn Barrowman, Midlands Photonics Cluster manager, said, "There is a total commitment to the continued expansion of the Photonics Cluster, which will see the inclusion of the remaining English laser manufacturers, distributors and relevant academic institutions." "The further integration of the cluster into defence, automotive, aerospace and healthcare sectors is a priority for the newly amalgamated Photonics Cluster, as well as the development of overseas networks for our membership." The merger has already brought together fifty companies, such as Coherent (UK) Ltd., Elliot Scientific, Fuji Film Electronic Publishing, Lambda Photometrics Ltd., TRW Conekt and Davin Group. For more information, visit: www.midlandsphotonicscluster.org