Filming has begun on Mother’s Day, a new factual drama for the BBC about the events, aftermath and public response to the Warrington bombing of March 1993.
Casting includes Anna Maxwell Martin, Vicky McClure, Daniel Mays and David Wilmot
Written by Nick Leather, Mother’s Day focuses on two ordinary women living either side of the Irish Sea, brought together in the wake of the tragedy.
Anna Maxwell Martin 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.
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.
Daniel Mays will play Tim’s father Colin Parry, with David Wilmot as Arthur McHugh. Further casting includes Simone Kirby and Conor Mullen.
Anna Maxwell Martin 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 says: “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.”
Writer Nick Leather says: “As someone who grew up in Warrington and was on my way into town on the day of the bombing, bringing this astonishing story to the screen has been a career-long mission. Over the last year, I’ve been fortunate to work with a wonderfully supportive team at the BBC, including the director Fergus O’Brien, and have found the Parry and McHugh families to be even more inspiring than I did as a kid. I hope people are as moved and affected by this drama as we have been making it.”
Piers Wenger, Controller of BBC Drama, says: “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. ”
Patrick Holland, Channel Controller of BBC Two, says: “Nick Leather’s script takes us into the heart of a family’s grief whilst also following the extraordinary unwillingness to let another death be in vain. With the outstanding Anna Maxwell Martin and Vicky McClure this promises to be a remarkable and powerful film.”
