Vera enthusiasts were struck by a wave of emotion in just moments of the last-ever series of the hit ITV show, with avid fans clamouring for more of its ilk.

As the much-loved drama returned on Wednesday evening, audiences were quick to voice their yearning for additional series akin to Vera, reluctant to bid farewell to the captivating narratives.

The inimitable Brenda Blethyn resumed her beloved portrayal of DCI Vera Stanhope, kicking off the 14th and ultimate season with the investigation into the curious demise of an ex-convict, flanked by her reliable squad.

Launching into the first of two extended episodes, Vera delves into the complex web surrounding the death of the former inmate found on the River Tyne’s shores, striving to discern whether his past caught up with him or if the story runs deeper.

As the compelling episode unravelled, fans flocked to social platforms to express their high praise and calls for ITV to commission further dramas of a similar calibre, reports Chronicle Live.

One emotionally charged fan shared on X, better known as Twitter: “I’m going to miss watching #Vera on @itv. Straightforward detective drama with no OTT stories or officers with hang-ups or dark secrets. Need more like this! ” (sic)

Another viewer reflected: “1 of 2 final episodes of #Vera. Honestly I’ve been watching this for such a long time, one of the only shows mum and myself will sit and watch together and try to figure out who done it. Sad to see it ending. Brenda Blethyn is an icon.” (sic)

Fans of the detective series are sharing their heartbreak over the show wrapping up, with comments flooding in like: “Great episode tonight, kept me guessing right to the end. Gutted the series is ending. #Vera.” (sic)

Another admirer expressed their love for both the literary and screen versions, writing: “Gutted that this is the last Vera. I loved the books and loved the series. They need to make more shows like this.”

One viewer lamented on social media: “It’s so sad that it’s the final series of Vera But @BrendaBlethyn deserves a decent break now and time to relax #Vera.” (sic)

Despite the curtains closing on Vera, Brenda Blethyn, who portrays the iconic detective, hasn’t dismissed the idea of a spin-off, revealing: “I wish there could have been an episode where I stayed at home in Kent: ‘Vera Goes South.'”

Yet, she acknowledged the deep ties the show has to its Northeast setting, saying: “But, of course, the series is dyed in the wool of Northumberland and the North East and I understand that’s where it has to be.”

Catch up with Vera now on ITVX.