Kicking up an ink: Joe has a face for tattoos

Peaky Blinders star Joe Cole has revealed how he’s made a permanent impression on some of the show’s fans.

“I’ve seen a few people with tattoos of my character,” confided Joe, who plays John Shelby in the BBC 2 series which has won a devoted following.

“It just shows how popular and beloved the series is. It is a great reflection on everyone’s hard work, from the cast and crew.”

This is the fourth series of the action-packed ’20s-set Birmingham drama, written by Steven Knight.

Cillian Murphy, Helen McCrory and Game Of Thrones’ Aiden Gillen are among the starry cast.

And having been around for a few years now, Joe says it’s great to return to old filming haunts.

“It is always nice to go back to Powis Street in Liverpool, which is our Watery Lane location.

“That feels like we’re back for a new series when you walk on to that street.

“The dock area where we shot a lot of the action sequences in series one, which is located at the Black Country Living Museum, feels like true Peaky Blinders territory, too.”

And the sheer bravado, as well as the location, is part of the growing attraction, according to Joe.

“I think the appeal of the series comes from the look and style and general swagger of the Peaky Blinders,” he adds.

“Steve has written the characters as lovable anti-heroes.

“Each character is multilayered and has their own individual complexities and darkness about them.

“I think what is special about our show is that you do get to do those large family scenes where the entire cast are altogether.

“It’s quite rare to have that. We certainly enjoy ourselves during those big family set pieces.”

Peaky Blinders, BBC2, Wednesday,

9pm.