ACPO lead on contact management Assistant Commissioner Ian Dyson said:

"There are huge benefits to the 101 number. It's easy to remember, easy to dial, it's the same number where ever you go in the UK and while it's a national number you get through to your local police force. We want urge the public to continue to make use of 101 because since its launch over 25 million callers successfully got through to their local police force through 101 and received the appropriate response and support.

"When members of the public dial 101, they are put through to their local force who have responsibility for managing their call demand. Police forces are working hard locally and nationally to continuously improve their service to all callers."