DCI Vera Stanhope is back on the case as Brenda Blethyn, cast and crew are back in the North East for the next series of the hit ITV show.

The exciting development was revealed by Vera creator, Ann Cleeves who wished the crew a "beautiful" morning and confirmed filming is starting for series 12.

It comes just weeks after Brenda Blethyn confirmed there are still two episodes of series 11, filmed last year, to air on the channel.

Read more: This is when Vera will return to ITV with new episodes in 2022

Confirming that filming was back underway, Cleeves tweeted: "A beautiful Northumberland morning to welcome team Vera home.

The Northern Echo: Picture: ITVPicture: ITV

"Good luck to Brenda Blethyn, Kenny Doughty, and all the cast and crew."

The exact filming locations have not yet been revealed, but it is anticipated that Blethyn and her iconic Land Rover will eventually be spotted by eagle-eyed fans.

Read more: What is she saying? ITV Vera viewers confused by North East slang

Meanwhile, fans on social media suggested that crew were setting up on the Town Moor near Newcastle.

As Cleeves confirmed the return, dozens of fans shared their excitement - with some left in surprise at yet another installment of the show.

Another said: "Yay I can't wait to watch more Vera. Love this programme and love trying to work out the locations."

One person said: "Another series? I hope so. It's so nice to have entertaining drama that's not like the others."

The Northern Echo: Brenda Blethyn in Blyth last year Picture: JULIE O'SULLIVANBrenda Blethyn in Blyth last year Picture: JULIE O'SULLIVAN

Meanwhile, businesses in the area echoed their excitement and described it as a "real treat" to see the crew back.

On social media, a community page in Whitley Bay urged residents and tourists to look out for the crew as filming is set to take place over coming months.

As filming kicked off last year for the eleventh series, Blethyn, cast and crew were spotted right across the North East.

Filming locations included Chester-le-Street, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Sunderland and Blyth.

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