5:52pm Thursday 20th September 2007
By Nathalie Gough
AVON and Somerset Constabulary and Age Concern are producing two plays with a message in a bid to reduce doorstep conmen.
The plays, Scambusters and Trickster, deal with serious crime issues in an entertaining and accessible way.
Rachel Davey of Age concern said: "Sadly doorstep criminals are known to target older people. That's why we're putting on these performances, which are great entertainment as well as equipping people to prevent crime."
The plays present fictional characters in realistic situations, and illustrate how these crimes can be avoided.
Acting Inspector Ian Baird of the police's Community Safety Department said: "Thankfully it's still rare for older people to become the victim of this sort of offence. However, when it does happen, it has a significant impact on their quality of life.
"The good news is that there are simple things which will deter these criminals. Don't open the door without putting the chain on and check identification carefully before letting anyone into your home. The key message is: 'If unsure, don't open the door'."
The free performance will be in Bridgwater Town Hall on Monday, October 15 at 3pm. Performances will also be held in Glastonbury, Minehead, and Taunton.
Refreshments will be on offer, as well as advice and information from various groups and services such as the police, Age Concern, and Neighbourhood Watch. To book a place for the performance, contact Age Concern on 01278-785921.
For more information on how to deal with unwanted and false callers, visit www.avonandsomerset.police.uk
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