Peaky Blinders back filming in Liverpool

Filming of the second series of the hit crime drama Peaky Blinders has started in Liverpool.

The first instalment of the BBC Two show, which is set in post First World War Birmingham, drew audiences of around 2.4 million.

Producers previously used Liverpool to recreate the show’s historical setting, with locations including Stanley Dock and Powis Street.

This morning they returned to the city as camera crews took to Rodney Street, where lead star Cillian Murphy could be seen in full 1920s costume.

The road was closed and shrouded in smoke as filming began at around 6am, with several social media updates showing thecast and crew in action.

Peaky Blinders takes its name from the gang’s habit of wearing flat caps with razor blades hidden in the peaks.

The second series will see the Shelby family, headed by Murphy’s gang leader Thomas, attempt to expand their criminal empire beyond the Midlands.

The Irish actor, who shot to fame after his role in zombie apocalypse flick 28 Days Later, has also appeared in blockbuster movies such as Batman Begins, The Dark Knight and Inception.

The new episodes of the gangster drama will see him joined by fellow Batman and Inception star Tom Hardy, the English actor who played Bane in The Dark Knight Rises.