Dorset's top-ranking police officer took to the stage in a bid to warn Bournemouth residents of the dangers of bogus callers.

Chief Constable Martin Baker agreed to make a special guest appearance in the musical show Trickster at the House of Destiny Christian Outreach Centre in Elliott Road, West Howe.

He said: "We are taking the threat of bogus callers and distraction burglaries extremely seriously and want to get across the message to those who are vulnerable, as well as their families, neighbours and carers that you don't need to be a victim of this crime.

"A few simple precautions and advice can prevent people you don't know from entering your property and stealing from you.

"It has been shown that performances of Trickster have reduced fear of this crime, built confidence and increased the reporting of this crime."

Written by PC Andy Saunders, Trickster is aimed at those who have been, or could be, potential victims of bogus callers or distraction burglaries; a crime that has been spread across the country in recent months.

Trickster has been performed 400 times around Great Britain by the Solomon Theatre company.

Elderly people and their families and friends were invited to come along to free performances where refreshments were provided.

A second performance of Trickster was staged at the Bishop of Winchester Comprehensive School.

*** News update - within 4 hours of the morning performance, there had been 30 calls to the Police reporting incidents and this led to between 8 and 10 investigations taking place - Marion Crichton MCIPR Communications Manager Dorset Police Force Headquarters