Vera's outfit to go on show for first time in Newcastle joined by Ann Cleeves
The mac and hat that are the defining image of the North East's favourite TV detective will go on show - for the first time - in Newcastle in March. The display will offer Vera fans a chance to see first-hand the trademark outfit, as worn by Brenda Blethyn in the long-running ITV crime series. And besides the instantly-recognisable coat and hat, they also will have a chance to see what lies beneath - in terms of a sensible gillet and patterned blouse that is - when the costume makes its debut on a mannequin at a special event at Discovery Museum, which is also being attended by Vera creator Ann Cleeves. The double Vera treat for fans is set to be the highlight of Wonder Woman which is the latest of the city museum's Discovery Nights; a series of after-hours events which offer visitors a chance to take part in drop-in activities, explore galleries, socialise and enjoy drinks at a pop-up bar. Wonder Women, taking place on March 6, is inspired by International Woman's Day - which is two days later - and is out to celebrate women connected to the North East, both past and present. And award-winning author Ann Cleeves and her famous character certainly earn their place there. Kylea Little, keeper of history at Discovery Museum, said: "Vera’s costume has never been seen by the public before. To have it out on display for the first time alongside Ann Cleeves who created the character is particularly special to us and, we hope, the people who come to the event." Ann, an international bestselling author whose books have been translated into more than 20 languages and popular worldwide, is to give a short reading, followed by a question-and-answer session, at the start of the evening which will run from 6pm until 9pm and must be pre-booked. Drop-in activities during the event will include 'lightning talks' on women such as trailblazing engineer Rachel Parsons and wartime doctor and social reformer Irene Ighodaro. Material from Tyne & Wear Archives will be on display to help chart the varied lives of local women from over the centuries. Adding to the mood of the evening will be live music tasters from singer-songwriter Kirsty Hall and a performance by all-women drum group Bangshees. There will be chances to try proggy mat-making with an expert from Woodhorn Museum in Northumberland and to sketch costumes, including Vera’s as well as clothes worn by South Tyneside author Catherine Cookson and an early piece from global fashion icon Louise Trotter from Sunderland. Visitors are also invited to take along books for a book-swap and, alongside a bar in the museum café, there also will be pizzas and nachos for sale. To buy tickets for the Wonder Women evening, costing £10 plus fees, see here.
