Grace filming takes place in city centre amid smoke warning

Film crews for a hit ITV crime drama descended on a nightclub turned bomb factory as residents were warned of smoke billowing from the building.

Cameras were set up inside the former Popworld in West Street, Brighton as filming for the fifth season of Grace got underway.

Huge TV lights were placed on rooftops beaming into the windows as the inside was transformed into the film set for the last two days.

High-powered lights used in the filming (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

People living nearby have been told not to be alarmed or dial 999 if they see smoke coming from the building.

A letter circulated to neighbours by a location manager working for ITV said: "As part of a special effects scene there may be smoke seen from the building throughout the day.

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"We are aware of the impact our filming may have and will endeavour to keep disruption to a minimum."

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service have been contacted and a fire engine will be on standby in nearby Boyce's Street.

Security stood guard outside the set (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

The fifth series of crime drama Grace  - based on the book series by author Peter James - was commissioned in March for four episodes.

John Simm will return to the screens as Detective Superintendent Roy Grace along with co-stars Richie Campbell, Zoe Tapper, Brad Morrison and Laura Elphinstone.

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Author Peter James said: "It is both heartening and astounding to me that we’re already at series five.

“The continued success of Grace is a testament to the outstanding cast headed by John Simm, and crew and, equally importantly, the fans, who have loved and devoted their time to these characters both on the page and now the screen."

Production for the latest series started in Spring and crews will take over parks, streets and homes.