The stars of the region’s favourite TV detective series reunited on stage last week.

Brenda Blethyn and Jon Morrison, who plays Kenny Lockhart, beloved stars of the award-winning hit show Vera, took to the stage at Whitley Bay Playhouse for a special event celebrating thirty years of author Ann Cleeves’ career.

Hosted by Channel 4's Steph McGovern, the group reunited to celebrate the character’s journey on page and screen, and to mark the launch of the tenth Vera novel, The Rising Tide.

The TV, now in production for its 12th series on ITV, has achieved cult status in the North East since its first airing over a decade ago.

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

PICTURES: ITV Vera star Kenny Doughty in Darlington for series 12 filming

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.

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