The first glimpse of a period drama has hit the internet after a Hollywood star was spotted filming for the series earlier this month.

Ilford Recorder: Tom Hardy (in the hat) filming in St Mary the Virgin church, in Overton Drive, Wanstead. Photo: Vicky ChandlerTom Hardy (in the hat) filming in St Mary the Virgin church, in Overton Drive, Wanstead. Photo: Vicky Chandler (Image: Vicky Chandler)

Oscar-nominated heartthrob Tom Hardy sent fans into a frenzy after he was seen filming upcoming TV series Taboo in Grade I listed St Mary the Virgin church in Overton Drive, Wanstead.

In the minute-long trailer Tom can be seen gracing the aisles at the church.

He plays James Keziah Delaney in the miniseries set in the 1800s, who builds his shipping empire to rival the famous East India Company.

During the filming, fans – some from as far as Brighton – flocked to the set to see the Revenant actor in the flesh.

Events manager Vicky Chandler drove 80 miles to be near the star.

Speaking to the Recorder outside the church, she said: “I was so excited I felt like my heart was going to explode.”