ITV Vera bosses confirm special spin-off - but fans will be left devastated

ITV chiefs have revealed an exciting Vera documentary to commemorate the conclusion of the popular drama series.

Brenda Blethyn is poised to leave her role as the beloved Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope after one more series of the drama, leaving fans heartbroken at the show's impending finale.

As part of the final series, two feature-length episodes will be aired to signify the end of the series, featuring David Leon reprising his role as DI Joe Ashworth, Jon Morrison returning as DC Kenny Lockhart, Riley Jones as DC Mark Edwards, Sarah Kameela Impey as pathologist Dr Paula Bennett, and Rhiannon Clements as DC Steph Duncan.

The duo of episodes will see Vera embark on a personal journey, with her last case taking her back to her roots when a body is discovered at the base of The Dark Wives, a mythical set of local stones she visited as a child.

In addition to the two episodes, a celebratory documentary will also be aired to mark the show's conclusion. This will include exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the final series and discussions with the cast and crew about Vera's impact, reports .

David Leon, Jon Morrison and Riley Jones have all been confirmed for interviews in the documentary special, and author Ann Cleeves will also make an appearance. However, fans will be saddened to learn that Kenny Doughty, who portrayed DS Aiden Healy for several years, will not return for the documentary special.

David, Jon, and Riley will be reminiscing about their top moments with Brenda and the close ties they've forged, but it seems Kenny is not poised for a comeback in the one-off documentary special dedicated to the show.

Kenny said his goodbyes to the series more than a year and a half ago.

"After 8 years and 35 Vera films I've made the difficult decision of handing over DS Healy's badge. I can confirm I am leaving Vera. I want to thank everyone who's made this amazing time so joyous, ITV, Silverprint, all the brilliant cast and crew BUT of course my buddy and inspiration Brenda Blethyn. The perfect leading star who I owe so much to. I feel lucky to have you as a friend, you make me howl with laughter and have been a rock for me over the years. I can't thank you enough. Precious times," he said.

"And finally the Vera fans: without you and your support I would never have made so many films. You really are the best fans in the . Thank you so much for your loyalty and love for the show. X."