British Gangsters: Faces of the Underworld

- Season 1

(2023)

Bernard O'Mahoney introduces himself and gives a brief description of his past which led him to becoming acquainted with the UK's most infamous "faces."

One of Manchester's most infamous gangs, formed in the 60s, was the Quality Street Gang. Named after the advert which showed a group of well-dressed men walking into a pub with a certain swagger, the gang was well known for sending the Krays 'packing' from Manchester when the brothers tried to expand their operation.

With a history rich in criminal activity, England's campital gives Bernie the chance to meet numerous 'faces' that have shaped London's colorful past, as well as present day names.

Tyneside's gangland capital was immortalised in the Michael Caine film Get Carter, based on the life of Dennis Stafford. Bernie meets Stafford, who talks of Newcastle's past.

The 70s and 80s saw a change in activity for criminal fraternities. Following the 'harsh' sentencing of the Krays, many turned to armed robbery to earn a living. Villains saw the banks and armoured cars that transported huge amounts of cash around the UK as relatively easy pickings.

In the final episode of the series, Bernie attempts to answer the age old question: "Does crime pay?" For many 'faces,' the initial adrenalin thrill of fast money and high rewards leads to decades of violence, prison life, destruction, fear and loss of life.