Robbery looks good
Posted: Thu Dec 12, 2013 11:15 pm
A new two-part drama series will tell the story of the 'crime of the century' through the eyes of the criminals and the police whose job it was to bring them to justice.
To mark the 50th anniversary of the Great Train Robbery, the BBC has taken a fresh look at the untold story behind the well-known folklore.
The country was left stunned after a train was hijacked and robbed, just 35 miles from its London destination in August 1963.
A 15-strong gang launched a raid on the overnight service from Glasgow at the Bridego Railway Bridge in Ledburn, Buckinghamshire in the early hours of August 8.
Led by the charismatic Bruce Reynolds, who is played by bright actor Luke Evans, 34, the group of mid-level criminals and a corrupt solicitor pulled off the infamous heist, making off with £2.6million.
The bulk of the huge haul of money was never recovered.
The gang fled the scene, seeking shelter at Leatherslade Farm. It was after police officers uncovered their hideout that incriminating evidence led to the arrest and conviction of most of the gang.
Leader Reynolds escaped the law for five years after going on the run, but was eventually tracked down and jailed for 25 years in 1969.
