SIX new recordings of hoax calls to police have been released by Hertfordshire Constabulary, to mark the launch of a new non-emergency number.

Police in Hertfordshire are hoping the release of yet more hoax or inappropriate 999 calls will serve as a timely reminder to residents of when and when not to make an emergency call.

The move comes as the force adopts the new non-emergency number, 101, a country-wide initiative designed to make calling police cheaper, easier and more efficient.

Hertfordshire is one of the first forces in the country to take on the new number, which will eventually phase out the old 0845 3300222 number.

The 101 number is due to be adopted by all forces in England and Wales by December.

Superintendent Rob Henry, who manages the force communications room, said: “The Constabulary welcomes this new number as it means members of the public will soon be able to phone 101 wherever they are in England and Wales, and reach their local force.

“Gone will be the days of people being asked to ring long and often expensive 0845 or 0300 numbers. And it is hoped, because the number is easier to remember, that it will ease the burden on unnecessary 999 calls from people unable to remember the non-emergency one.”

The new hoax and inappropriate calls range from the incredulous to the outright malicious.

One man calls the police to ask for a lift after falling asleep on the train and missing his stop. Another man calls to report a robbery in Letchworth before breaking off the conversation. He can be heard laughing on the tape.

Police have once again reminded residents only to call 999 in an emergency, defined as when there is a crime in progress, or an immediate threat to life or property.

The non-emergency line is for non-urgent matters such as trying to contact a local police officer, providing information about a crime, reporting a crime after it has taken place and if you suspect drug dealing in your area.

Matters regarding fly-tipping and noise nuisance should be reported to the local authority.

The new 101 service costs 15p for the duration of the call.