Senior citizens from Barking and Dagenham were treated to a stage performance aimed at keeping them safe from bogus callers and distraction burglars on Friday.

The anti-distraction burglary production of “Ma Kelly’s Doorstep” was performed by the Attic Theatre Company at Barking United Social Club on Blake Avenue.

Officers from Eastbury Safer Neighbourhoods Team organised and supervised the event and were on hand to answer any questions from the audience concerning safety and crime prevention. A raffle was also drawn with chocolate prizes.

Sgt Lucy Cenizo said: “This type of burglar targets vulnerable members of the community. Through this presentation we hope empower senior residents to say “no” to strangers who call without appointments

Borough Commander Matt Bell said: “Although distraction burglary is not a common crime in Barking and Dagenham, one victim of this devastating crime is one too many. I urge anyone who is unsure a caller is genuine to dial 999.”