A NEW initiative is being piloted in the district, using drama to show people how to stay safe against bogus callers.

A preview of the play 'Feeling Good, Keeping Safe' was performed at Theydon Bois Village Hall by volunteers from Roding Valley University of the Third Age.

The aim of the show, organised by the Epping Forest District Safer Communities Partnership, is to improve doorstep crime awareness and avoid becoming a victim.

The drama production shows how burglars work, and provides audiences with techniques to use to stop them.

Between 2006 and 2008 there were 162 offences of distraction burglary reported in the district with the average age of victims being 81.

Safer Communities Partnership Chairman John Gilbert said: "Whilst the Epping Forest District is a very safe place to live, this does not prevent criminals from targeting the most vulnerable within our communities, particularly the elderly and infirm who often live alone.

"It is our priority to inform and protect those who may be at risk from bogus callers both at the doorstep and on the telephone."

The plays will be performed across the district as part of the National Rogue Trader awareness campaign.

For more information contact Caroline Wiggins on cwiggins@eppingforest.gov.uk or call 01992 564122.