The Peaky Blinders found their way to the Towns as part of a community photo shoot.

Following a call on social media, residents came together in full get-up – including the iconic flat-caps – ready to spend their day acting as the notorious Birmingham gang while having their snaps taken.

Behind the scenes

Taylor Williams decided to create the shoot as a work experience opportunity for students to get some hands-on work in the industry.

The 20-year-old freelance photographer and videographer said: "I would have loved the opportunity that I am attempting to give younger people. It is the first time they were in a professional setting. Mainly I wanted to create opportunities for young people.

"I never had any opportunities when I was at school and where I can give back it feels like the right thing to do.

"I am only 20. I wanted to create opportunities that I would have liked."

The gangster-inspired set involved people dressing as the notorious TV characters and saw students from Greenacre Academy, Walderslade Girls' School and Midkent College help out with some hands on work experience.

The college's hair and beauty students were in charge of make-up and other schools' pupils from media, photography and performing arts courses attended to build up their portfolios.

The session took place at The Ship Inn, Gillingham, on Monday, after Taylor decided the pub had the right feel about it.

The Walderslade resident only started his photography work after lockdown inspired him to renew his interest.

He decided to combine his passion for the lens with the fictional criminals.

He said local people are obsessed with the BBC show and are always hosting themed nights and events, so he knew he would get a lot of volunteers. Around 30 to 40 showed up to help out.

The single dad added: "I was worried people would not get along but it was like old mates meeting up.

"It created a good atmosphere for people to work."

The real Peaky Blinders were a crime gang which was active in Birmingham from the 1890s to the early 20th century.

The TV show follows the Shelby family in the aftermath of the First World War.

The upcoming sixth season is expected to hit screens in the new year.

Earlier this year, Taylor took to Rochester High Street taking free portraits for people to gain some exposure and has since snapped UB40, The Libertines and Soul II Soul among others.

The former Greenacre Academy pupil wants to continue offering experiences to younger people like this and said he plans to host more in the new year.

You can follow him on his social media pages @WilliamsTPhotography and you can also find the students' make-up accounts on Instagram @emily.m.beauty and @makeupby_phoebem.