Vera author to become patron of Tyneside charity.

Tyneside and Northumberland Mind have confirmed that Ann Cleeves – bestselling author of the acclaimed ITV series Vera and Shetland - has agreed to become the charity’s Patron.

Tyneside and Northumberland Mind are a local charity dedicated to supporting people with their mental health.

They rely on raising their own funds to continue the excellent work they do within the local community.

Alex Wilson, CEO for the charity, said: “This is a massive opportunity to promote Tyneside and Northumberland Mind. We will be working with Ann to raise our profile over the forthcoming months.

“With her support, we will ensure that as many people know that we are here providing support and services for those with mental ill health throughout the Tyneside and Northumberland area. ”

Ann and her family have already raised over £4,000 for the charity in memory of Ann’s husband Tim, who lived with Bipolar and bouts of acute depression via JustGiving. This donation has already enabled Tyneside and Northumberland Mind to continue to provide a Safe Space service in North Tyneside.

Ann Cleeves, continues: “I'm delighted to become Patron for Tyneside and Northumberland Mind and to support their vital work in this region. No one should have to face mental illness alone.”

In addition, Ann has offered to help the charity fundraise as they rely on community fundraising and the support of local companies and individuals to offer their services throughout the area.

“We are really excited and grateful that Ann has very kindly arranged for a part in Vera to be the Grand prize in our forthcoming raffle.

“We are now looking for more raffle prizes from others who want to support mental health services,” added Lee Walker, Community Fundraising Co-ordinator contactable at fundraising@tynesidemind.org.uk.

Sunday Times Top Five bestseller, Ann Cleeves, is the author of 32 novels in 32 years and 2017’s recipient of the CWA Diamond Dagger. Her work is translated into 20 languages and, with over 5 million copies sold worldwide, Cleeves’ bestselling books are loved in print and on screen: both the Vera Stanhope and Shetland series are now major TV adaptations starring Brenda Blethyn on ITV and Douglas Henshall on BBC One respectively.

The forthcoming grand summer raffle will be drawn on 20th August with the prize of a part in Vera, donated by Ann Cleeves, to be unveiled