Farewell, pet

MILLIONS of fans will say a fond "farewell, pet" to TV detective Vera Stanhope as she cracks her final case tonight.

- JEREMY ARMSTRONG

But, as star Brenda Blethyn hangs up her trusty bucket hat and gabardine coat, the show leaves behind more than just 14 years of great crime drama.

The series has launched careers, boosted visitor numbers to the North East and helped put the region on the global stage for the creative arts.

The Red King, a crime series from the producer of Happy Valley, was filmed in Northumberland. This year, Oscarwinning movie director Danny Boyle brought Hollywood star Jodie Comer to the area for 28 Years Later.

And production giant Fulwell 73 says plans for its Crown Works Studios, by the River Wear in Sunderland, are at an advanced stage.

The first phase of the £450million complex should be completed by 2026. It is expected to create 8,000 jobs.

Vera has also been sold to 178 territories, making DCI Vera Stanhope one of the world's most recognisable TV detectives. At the latest North East England Tourism Awards, the show received an Outstanding Contribution trophy for its role in attracting visitors.