Essex Police has urged the public to only call 999 for police matters, after 1,300 calls were received yesterday (May 20), but only a fifth were emergencies.

Police say the control room has seen a high number of calls in the last 24 hours from those who should need another agency.

Only around 20 per cent of calls taken required an immediate emergency response.

Chief Inspector Jamie Gingell, who runs Essex Police's control room, said: "Yesterday was another busy day but thanks to the professionalism and dedication of my team, we still managed to answer 999 calls in an average of eight seconds.

"If you're not sure if the incident or issue you want to speak to someone about is something for the police or not, you can check on the Ask the Police website.

"By doing this, you can help us ensure we're getting to those people who need our help the most as quickly as possible.

"If someone's wellbeing is at immediate risk or there is an incident ongoing, that's the time to call 999.

"If it's not an emergency, there are other, better ways to get in touch.

"If you have information about an incident or investigation that has already happened, you can also report this to us using our online reporting services.

"You can also contact us using our Live chat functionality during operating hours rather than waiting on a 101 line".

Issues such as noise nuisances, graffiti, or low-level anti-social behaviour should be reported to the local council, rather than to the police. Medical or health-related matters should be taken to the health service.

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