Brenda Blethyn likens her Vera return to a 'homecoming'

Brenda Blethyn is thrilled to be returning for the 13th series of 'Vera'.

The 77-year-old actress has played DCI Vera Stanhope in the TV crime drama since 2011, and she's likened reprising the role to a homecoming.

Brenda said in a statement: "Stepping back into Vera's shoes for the 13th series feels like coming home again.

"The support from the locals in the North East is truly heart-warming and reuniting with the talented David Leon and the rest of our exceptional team is an absolute delight.

"Together, we embark on this new chapter with a terrific script crafted by the brilliant Paul Matthew Thompson."

David Leon is also looking forward to the new series, revealing that he's excited to reunite with Brenda.

David - who is reprising the role of Joe Ashworth on the ITV show - said: "I’m thrilled to be returning to 'Vera'. It's fantastic to be back in the North East and reunited with Brenda and the crew for the new series.

"I’m looking forward to exploring the relationship between Joe and Vera as they make up for lost time."

Meanwhile, executive producer Will Nicholson is thrilled to be back in the North East and he can't wait to work with the show's cast and crew once again.

He shared: "Being from the North East it is always a joy to film 'Vera' here and we are very grateful for the warmth and support from the fans during production.

"Starting the new series is incredibly exciting and alongside the incomparable Brenda Blethyn and the rest of our talented cast, we are delighted to welcome David Leon back to the show."