The real time drama takes place on the Heart of Britain service, a train running from Glasgow to London. A government agency closely monitors and desperately attempts to intervene on the sleeper train’s rapidly accelerating events. Two strangers (Roach and Cole), one on the train and one not, are forced to work together to ensure the diverse group of passengers aren’t journeying towards their final ever destination.

Also boarding the Heart of Britain will be David Threlfall (Shameless), Alex Ferns (The Devil’s Hour), Sharon Small (The Inspector Lindley Mysteries), James Cosmo (Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan), Lois Chimimba (Vigil), Gabriel Howell (The Fence), Katie Leung (Harry Potter), Ruth Madeley (Years and Years),  Leah MacRae (Rosie Molloy Gives Up Everything), Adam Mitchell (Mother’s Day) Sharon Rooney (Jerk), Pamela Nomvete (Andor), Scott Reid (Maxine), Daniel Cahill (The Control Room) and Parth Thakerar (Gangs of London).

Creator and writer Nick Leather (The Control Room) says: “It’s a joy to be able to write for this cast of some of the finest acting talent in the UK today - our train is a real rollercoaster, a white-knuckle trip through the heart of Britain, and I’m delighted to have them join us for the ride.”

Director of BBC Drama, Lindsay Salt, says: “I’m so pleased that Joe, Alexandra and this exceptional ensemble cast have all come aboard Nightsleeper as it speeds towards BBC One and iPlayer. Nick Leather has created an adrenaline-fuelled thriller like no other and I can’t wait to see it brought to the screen.”

Filming on the six part series is currently underway in Glasgow, Scotland.