Audiences have been learning through song how to beat
bogus callers at two performances of a popular play called
Trickster.
'Trickster' is a popular musical, which follows a former soldier
called George as he faces up to the realisation that he has been
the victim of a distraction burglary. The play shows George's
journey as he learns more about the problem and successfully keeps
other bogus callers out.
The hour-long performance includes songs such as Doorstep Ditty
and Don't Take Me In with the audience encouraged to join in and
sing along.
The play was performed at the Winter Gardens in
Weston-super-Mare and was a free event open to residents across
Avon and Somerset. It was a joint initiative between Avon and
Somerset Constabulary and the new South West Scambusters Team, a
specialist Trading Standards team based in Bristol, who work
closely together to tackle doorstep crime, which can include
distraction burglary, bogus officials and rogue trading.
A number of other agencies, including Age Concern, CareLink,
Consumer Direct and North Somerset Trading Standards were also at
the event with information stands and to answer questions the
audience had on how to avoid becoming a victim of rogue traders,
scams and distraction burglary.
Speaking about the event, Sergeant Dave Hayward said:
"Distraction burglary is not a common crime but when it does happen
the effects on victims can be devastating, with victims often left
shaken and scared in their own homes. Many crimes are not reported
either because the victims do not realise money has been taken,
because they feel embarrassed or because they are worried relatives
will think they cannot cope living independently. Performances such
as this are an entertaining and memorable way. I am pleased that we
have been able to offer this play to local people and would
encourage anyone else with an opportunity to see Trickster to watch
the show."
Alan Evans, manager of the SW Scambusters team, added:
"Distraction burglars and doorstep criminals prey on the most
vulnerable members of society. We want to make sure residents are
aware of the dangers and protect them from these unscrupulous
criminals, so that they can feel safe and confident in their own
homes. Our new Scambusters team is dedicated to tracking down these
criminals and putting them out of business. By working closer with
the police, sharing information and resources, we are much better
equipped to get to grips with them."
North Somerset Council executive member, Cllr Peter Bryant,
said: "The Trickster presentation was superbly performed and
illustrated how tricksters plausibly gain the confidence of the
elderly and vulnerable in society, stripping them of assets, cash
and most of all their dignity.
"The audiences were amused and entertained by the play and
clearly understood the important message by the quality of
questions at the end of the show."
For more information on how to stay safe from bogus callers
visit
www.avonandsomerset.police.uk
or visit the ‘Helping you become ScamWise’ link at
www.swercots.org.uk, the
South West Trading Standards Partnership.
Anyone who thinks they may have been ripped off by a rogue
trader or wants to report a scam can report the matter and seek
advice via the Consumer Direct helpline on 08454 04 05
06.