Filming of ‘Vera’ series 5 commences in Northumberland

Filming has begun on the fifth series of popular ITV detective drama, Vera starring Brenda Blethyn.

Based on the characters created by novelist Ann Cleeves, the four new episodes sees Blethyn reprise her role as the brilliantly perceptive D.C.I. Vera Stanhope alongside actor Kenny Doughty (Stella, West End production of The Full Monty) who will join the show as DS Aiden Heavy – replacing D.S Joe Ashworth (David Leon).

Series 5 also sees the return of Jon Morrison (High Times, Nil By Mouth) as D.C. Kenny Lockhart, Cush Jumbo (Torchwood: Children of Earth) as D.C. Bethany Whelan, Kingsley Ben-Adir (City Slacker) as pathologist, Dr. Marcus Summer and Riley Jones as D.C. Mark Edwards.

Episode One, written by Martha Hillier will see Vera and Aiden investigate a mysterious death at a caravan park.

Prior to filming Brenda said: “ I am so happy to be embarking on series 5 of Vera and whilst I’ll miss David Leon (Joe Ashworth finally got his long awaited promotion – Celine was delighted!), I’m very glad to be reunited with Jon Morrison, Riley Jones, Cush Jumbo and our new member of the team Kenny Doughty. Northumberland here we come!’

Kenny Doughty said, “I’m really thrilled to be joining Vera. It’s such a fantastic show and I’m especially excited to be working alongside the lovely and brilliant Brenda Blethyn.”

Vera is produced for ITV Studios by Margaret Mitchell with executive producers Kate Bartlett and Elaine Collins. Directors for this series are Marek Losey, Daikin Marsh, Stewart Svaasand and Will Sinclair.

Vera is filmed in the North East of England until Autumn 2014 for transmission on ITV in 2015.