Ding ding! Filming is underway for A Thousand Blows, the 12-part drama set in the gritty world of 1880s illegal boxing in the East End of London.

The series centres on two protagonists, Heziah, played by Malachi Kirby (Small Axe), and Alec, played by Francis Lovehall (His Dark Materials). The pair are thrust into the underground London boxing scene after arriving from Jamaica, and quickly find themselves fighting on all fronts in a punishing world of violence and lawlessness.

Whilst simultaneously clashing with opponents in the ring and being drawn into the criminal underworld of the sport, they face physical and psychological bouts along the way in a fight for survival.

As Hezekiah becomes a respected contender in the ring, he faces Sugar Goodson (Stephen Graham), a grisly and seasoned fighter. From there, the two ignite a violent rivalry that spills out into the streets of East London.

Erin Doherty (The Crown) lines up as leader of The Forty Elephants, a notorious all-female gang.

The cast and crew host both industry heavyweights and breakthrough stars. The show is created, written and executive produced by Steven Knight, who has plenty of experience bringing Victorian-era scripts to life through Peaky Blinders and his various TV adaptations of Charles Dickens' novels.

Other writers include Ameir Brown (Zack’s Adventures), Insook Chappell (The Broken) and fresh voices Harlan Davies and Yasmin Joseph.

Star Stephen Graham (Help) has also executive produced the project.

The Forty Elephants will also feature Hannah Walters (This is England) as Eliza Moody. Walters is Stephen Graham’s wife and frequent collaborator, having previously worked together on movies This is England and Boiling Point and TV series Time. Nadia Albina (You) comes in as Verity Ross and Morgan Hilaire enters the arena in her breakout role as Esme Long.

Jason Tobin (Warrior) plays Mr Lao and James Nelson-Joyce (The Gold) plays Edward “Treacle” Goodson.

The release date for A Thousand Blows will be announced in due course.