Irish peace rally drama ‘Mother’s Day’ begins filming for BBC Two

The cast has been announced for BBC Two’s new one-off TV movie Mother’s Day.

The Bletchley Circle star Anna Maxwell Martin will lead the factual drama, alongside Vicky McClure (The Replacement), Daniel Mays (Against the Law) and David Wilmot (The Guard).

Filming is currently underway in Belfast.

Mother’s Day tells the story of the events, aftermath and public response to the Warrington bombing of March 1993.

The 90-minute film will focus on two ordinary women living either side of the Irish Sea, brought together in the wake of the tragedy.

Anna Maxwell Martin, who plays Wendy Parry, the mother of 12 year old Tim Parry who lost his life in the attack which left two boys dead and many others injured, says: “I know that many will recall the bravery and dignity shown by the families affected by the Warrington bombings. It’s a real honour to be telling their story.”

Vicky McClure plays Susan McHugh, the Dublin mother of two so outraged by the loss of young life that she organised one of the largest peace rallies in Irish history, leading thousands through the streets in protest at the continued violence of the Troubles.

The Line of Duty star said: “Susan McHugh’s actions back in 1993 remain just as inspirational today as they were 25 years ago. I feel truly privileged to play her in this incredibly moving new film.”

Piers Wenger, Controller of BBC Drama, added: “It is with great power and poignancy that Mother’s Day looks at how the worst of tragedies can affect both those directly involved and communities further afield, inspiring them to act. We’re immensely proud to tell this story.”