Brenda Blethyn returns to filming ITV Vera and is spotted in Hartlepool

DCI Vera Stanhope is back on the case after television's favourite detective was spotted filming in the North East today.

Brenda Blethyn, who plays the leading lady in the hit ITV show Vera, was seen along with her iconic Land Rover Defender on Thursday lunchtime.

Shots had been filmed outside Hartlepool Railway Station as the area surrounding the site was turned into a set, buzzing with activity and cameras.

It is not clear what scenes were being filmed but Blethyn could be seen driving in and out of the station concourse.

The Northern Echo: Picture: POLICE HOUR Picture: POLICE HOUR

Police Hour had captured the pictures at around 1 and 2pm today.

It comes as Blethyn, cast and crew announced a short break from filming of the twelfth series of the show back in May, this year.

Since then, Vera fans have been left eagerly waiting for news and any first glimpses of filming resuming.

In recent months, Blethyn, Kenny Doughty and big names from the series have filmed scenes in Darlington, Dunston and Elswick in Newcastle.

Earlier this year, hundreds turned out to watch as Doughty, who plays DS Aiden Healy, greeted fans outside the Town Hall in Darlington.

So far, ITV has not confirmed when series 12 will air nor has it said when the remaining two episodes from series 11 will be available.

A spokesperson for ITV today confirmed filming had resumed.

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Vera back on the case as ITV star spotted filming in the North East today