Vera fans 'gutted' after Brenda Blethyn films final scenes as DCI Stanhope

Vera's leading lady Brenda Blethyn has given fans an update on her final series as DCI Stanhope.

The actress, who has played Vera since 2011, announced her departure from the show earlier this year leaving fans gutted. However, in her latest post on social media, Brenda explained she was about to finish filming for the ITV series.

The DCI Stanhope star shared a picture of a Vera cake along with the caption: "Last few days of filming VERA but we still have time for Macmillan fundraiser."

Brenda's followers rushed to the comments section to wish her "good luck" with many sharing their disappointment about the series coming to an end.

One fan replied: "Gutted it’s ending as it’s one of my absolute favourite shows but I understand how difficult it can be for you to be away from your home for so much time & it must be tiring. Enjoy your retirement." (sic)

"Can’t wait for the new series, just love Vera," another wrote while a third added: "Hi Brenda, I've so enjoyed the series and look forward to the final season. I'll miss it but understand it's been a great run and I wish you the best in your next adventure."

Someone else shared: "Aww, Vera. One of the shows I've enjoyed most. Because of YOU. Ok - I'll get the writers some credit too."

The forthcoming series, set to broadcast early next year, signifies the final chapters for Brenda and the cast.

"Working on Vera has been a joy from beginning to end and I'm sad to be saying Cheerio. But I am so proud of our achievements over the last fourteen years," Brenda shared.

"I'll be forever grateful to the wonderful Ann Cleeves who created Vera, and to Elaine Collins who saw fit to cast me in the role."

She added: "The Producers, dream cast, and crew have been fabulous and I'm going to miss them, but I won't forget their huge talent, the camaraderie, laughter or kindness we shared nor the friendship of the people of the northeast and our fans worldwide."

The actor who plays Mark Edwards also shared a sad announcement with fans.

Riley Jones wrote: "Heading up to Newcastle to film my last few scenes for Vera and reading this article by @Graemethedean Weird that someone is chopping onions on the train."

Vera will return to ITV early next year.