AN EVENING with Vera and Stone & Oliver authors raises over £6000 for charity.

Multi-award-winning authors Ann Cleeves and Mari Hannah entertained 200 people at the Summer Tyne Crime event, held in the Function Suite at Hexham’s Auction Mart on Thursday, July 6.

The two North East detective authors helped to raise over £6000 for the Hexham-based charity Chrysalis Club Tynedale - a charity that provides an activities club and support for members who are living with dementia and ongoing memory problems, and their families.

The two writers kept the packed room entertained with tales about how they first started writing, as well as chatting about their much-loved characters Vera, and Stone & Oliver. They also talked about the many locations around the North East which feature in their fiction and answered questions from the audience.

Local TV presenter Chris Jackson hosted the evening, which included an auction, during which bidding was fast and furious, with prizes including trips to the set of ITV’s “Vera” and even the chance to be named in future books.

Hexham Courant:

Event organizers Rosie Robson and Debby Waldron said: “This event has not only raised thousands of pounds, it has also brought the community together.  The money raised will go towards a continuation of our work, which supports those living with dementia, their carers and their families.

"We are delighted that so many people attended, and had a brilliant evening, as well as donating so generously to our cause.

"We also extended their thanks and gratitude to the two authors, as well as all of the local businesses who supported the event."