A MOBILE theatre company is helping elderly people across the borough to stay vigilant to the threat of doorstep crime.

The Halliwell Theatre Company has devised a 40-minute performance which centres around the prop of a real front door, which they take to venues and set up themselves.

The six-strong group performs seven scenarios featuring different characters who all answer their door to a bogus caller.

Some characters turn away the caller, but others are careless and become the victim of doorstep crime.

The actors adopt different costumes and accents for each part, to show that almost anyone can be a victim of crime in their home.

The show aims to highlight the dangers of bogus callers to elderly people with a firm message that homeowners need to be extra careful, and always ask for official identification.

Performances of the show have been a hit with audiences across Greater Manchester, and as far afield as London.

The group, made up of actors Marjorie Holder, Steve Masvilec, Steve Leyland, Joyce Smith, Peter Haslam and David Crank, have been invited to perform for neighbourhood watch organisations and community groups.

Group secretary Marjorie Holder, who lives in Halliwell, said: "Our scenarios may contain a bit of humour, but the message is still very clear to elderly homeowners.

"We want to highlight the dangers of bogus callers, and what better way than through visual drama, which is entertaining at the same time."

The group are available to visit any community groups in Bolton. For more information call Mrs Holder on 01204 400924.