'Trickster the Musical' launched by police after string of thefts by bogus Age Concern workers in Epsom

The man and woman persuaded their elderly victim that they had to fill out some forms after knocking on her door in Hazon Way, Epsom.

Surrey Police said tricksters pretending to be from Age Concern have recently carried out a string of thefts, and officers have been preparing to launch a new strategy in their fight against distraction burglaries - by putting on a theatrical performance called “Trickster the Musical”.

The force has invited elderly and vulnerable residents to the free show, at the Ewell Court House, in Lakehurst Road, Ewell, at 7pm next Wednesday, to learn about the dangers of cold callers.

PC Ryan Bramley, of Surrey Police, said: “We have been in touch with Age Concern which has advised they will never cold call and will always telephone their customers to arrange an appointment beforehand. Callers will also have identification with them and will willingly produce this.”

A spokesman from Age Concern added: “We would urge anyone, particularly those who are older and more vulnerable, not to open their doors to anyone they are unsure of.”

The musical will be based on a true story, following an elderly man called George who was a victim of distraction burglars. Professional actors will help to get the message across with energetic storytelling and singing.

PC Elena Polo-Frenandez, a neighbourhood specialist officer for Surrey Police, said: “Unfortunately we have had a number of reported cases of bogus callers in the Epsom area recently and this is a way to help people learn how to protect themselves from these criminals.

“Recently we have seen fraudsters claiming they were from the registered charity Age Concern to gain access to the property and we are currently investigating these incidents.”

Anyone with information about the burglary in Haxon Way, Epsom, at about 2pm last Tuesday should contact Surrey Police on 0845 125 2222, quoting reference EP/10/4313.