A BBC2 drama documentary about the first murder ever committed on a British train was filmed in Hackney.

Murder on the Victorian Railway reconstructs the investigation into the murder of banker Thomas Briggs in July 1864, which horrified society at the time and quickly became a news sensation as the dangers of the brave new world of the train were laid bare.

The film uses testimonies from court transcripts, memoirs, letters and newspaper reports to tell the story of the crime through those connected to it, including engine driver Alfred Ekin, who found the body – and is played by local actor Dave Nellist from Powerscroft Road, Upper Clapton.

Mr Ekin discovered blood in a first class carriage on a Hackney bound train, and a body was then found on the railway embankment.

Some scenes were filmed in the Top O’The Morning pub in Cadogan Terrace, Victoria Park where Mr Briggs’ body was taken after its discovery when it was known as the Mitford Arms.

“It was very eerie filming in the actual room where the body was taken,” said Mr Nellist.

“Being based in Hackney for over 15 years it was great to be involved in such a local story and the reviews have been excellent.”

The film is available to watch on the BBC iplayer.