A touring theatre company will put bogus callers in the spotlight when they take dramatic action to protect vulnerable Walsall residents.

Leading housing provider whg and Walsall Partnership is bringing Solomon Associates to Shelfield Community Academy for two community performances of 'Trickster' on 4th May.

The educational and fun musical, which has been staged around the country to raise awareness of doorstep crime, is based on a true story.  A cast of three tells the tale of elderly veteran George who battles to cope after being conned by a distraction burglar. 

Jayne Cooper, whg's Older Person's Services Manager, said Trickster delivered important messages aimed at older and other vulnerable people within the community.

"It raises awareness of bogus callers - from rogue salesmen, to fake reps from the water board or people pretending to work for the local authority - and gives advice on how to spot the signs and make sure you don't become the next victim.

"Older people can be seen as an easy target by criminals who trick their way into homes to steal valuables. We at whg will do everything we can to stop this happening."

There will be a 9:45am and a 1:45pm performance of the 45 minute show and a half an hour sing-a-long at the end. Tickets are free but must be booked as there are a limited number of seats available.

Pupils at the secondary school in Broad Way, Pelsall, will meet and greet guests as they arrive and serve refreshments. The school is hosting the theatre company to break down barriers between young and old. 

whg's Community Safety Team will be joined on the day by officers from West Midlands Police, Walsall Trading Standards and voluntary groups to share security advice with the audience.

Clive Wright, director at Walsall Partnership said: "Distraction burglary is a nasty crime and deceitful callers often single out the vulnerable.

"In Walsall, incidents of distraction burglaries are sporadic but we still want to give residents a head start in dealing with callers who may well try to con their way into homes. Hopefully, this performance will remind the audience of the basic principles in how to deal with an unexpected caller at the door."

Call whg's Older Person's Services Team on 0300 555 666 for ticket information.