TEENAGERS gave elderly residents a vital safety lesson.

Residents from Rex Mott Court, in Guithavon Street, Witham, learnt about bogus callers from Year 11 performing arts pupils from New Rickstones Academy, in Conrad Road, Witham.

The teenagers performed a 25-minute play highlighting the risks of opening the door to strangers. The project is a joint venture between the academy and police.

Pupils were assessed during the performance as part of their coursework. Heather Davis, director of performing arts, said: “This project helps everybody.

“It is great for our pupils to have the opportunity to work to a real vocational brief.”

Vice-principal Bob Pulman added: “To go into the community like this is wonderful for the pupils and great for older people.”