STUDENTS from a Blackwell college are hoping to raise awareness of distraction burglaries through a drama production.

The youngsters from Hunters Hill Technology College, in Spirehouse Lane, are staging the drama, which includes advice on how people can guard against these incidents.

The production has been supported by West Mercia Police’s Knock Knock campaign that aims to reduce the number of distraction burglaries committed in the force area.

The play is being performed on Wednesday, (February 16), and among the invited members will be representatives from Bromsgrove Age Concern, Bromsgrove District Housing Trust, and the Parachute Regimental Association.

Jacqueline Skeldon, a drama teacher at the college, said: “This is about bringing the community together and raising awareness of how distraction burglaries happen.

“We discovered during our research that most people affected by this type of crime are not even aware that there is no such thing as ‘the gas board’ or ‘electricity board’ which distraction burglars claim to work for when they call at people’s homes.

“Our production shows the ‘grooming’ process which they use to gain people’s trust before they steal from them.”

She added if the event was a success, further performances could be staged.

Bromsgrove District Inspector Julian Smith said: “There are some important messages in this drama and anything that raises awareness of the issue and helps prevent people from becoming victims of this type of crime should be supported.”