Distraction burglary musical to help elderly residents beat bogus callers

Actors performing Trickster the Musical about distraction burglary

A theatre company is set to help elderly and vulnerable residents in north east Derbyshire beat the burglars with a free musical about bogus callers.

'Trickster the Musical' aims to raise the level of awareness of the issue of distraction burglary and dishonest doorstep traders and provide advice and build confidence.

A cast of three professional actors will present the show based around George, an elderly gentleman that has become the victim of a distraction burglar.

Once a proud soldier, the play follows George as he battles with the shame and humiliation at being conned and his fight back to beat the bogus callers.

Residents in Killamarsh and Dronfield will be able to choose between two performances of the musical on Thursday, February 25, which are part of a multi-agency day to tackle distraction burglaries.

The musical will be performed in the Parish Suite, Killamarsh Leisure Centre, starting around 9.30am. The second performance in Dronfield Sports Centre will take place between 2.30pm to 5.30pm.

After each performance, which lasts around an hour, there will be a chance to speak to officers from your local Safer Neighbourhood team, the Fire Service, Trading Standards and Severn Trent Water about the password protection scheme.

There will also be free burglary packs and refreshments available.

Community Safety Partnership Sergeant Mel Hagues said: "Distraction burglary is a despicable crime that not only robs people of material things but also their pride and confidence.

"We hope by seeing Trickster people will have the awareness and confidence to turn away bogus callers and report them to the police.

"The musical is entertaining and interesting but it also has some very important messages that really hit home and elderly people can really relate to it."

The event has been organised and funded by the North East Derbyshire Community Safety Partnership.

Anyone wanting to attend should just turn up on the day. For more information contact Sgt Hagues on 01246 217 671.