Vera author visits Sunderland students

A best-selling crime writer has shared her industry insight with aspiring authors during a special campus visit in the North East.

Ann Cleeves OBE joined creative and professional writing students at the University of Sunderland’s St Peter’s Campus to discuss her career and experiences in publishing. 

Best known for her Detective Vera Stanhope novels, later adapted into the ITV drama Vera, Cleeves has also seen her Shetland series brought to the screen by the BBC.

Author of more than 30 novels, she has received the Crime Writers’ Association Diamond Dagger and the Theakston Outstanding Contribution Award. 

In 2022, she was awarded an OBE for services to reading and libraries and previously received an honorary doctorate from the university.

Ann said: “I was delighted to have talked to Sunderland students and hear about their writing and reading on this lovely campus.”

The event forms part of a programme bringing industry professionals to campus to support students’ career ambitions.

Dr Barbara Henderson, programme leader for BA English: creative and professional writing at the University, said: “It's really important that our students not only learn to be excellent writers, but that they also find out about pathways to publication and learn to network with other authors and industry representatives.

“That's why we've been working hard to put students in front of those who've been successful. 

“It’s hugely exciting that such a brilliant writer and well-known name as Ann Cleeves has spoken to students and I know they have learned a lot from her wealth of experience.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →