THE superintendent of Wiltshire Police advised callers to ring the correct number to ensure the force helps those in need as quickly as possible while experiencing high demand.

Superintendent Phil Staynings reminded people to only dial 999 in emergencies and 101 for less urgent issues as this will help ease pressure on both lines during a very busy time for the police.

He wrote in an open letter: "During the summer, we often see an increase in calls... and the majority of these calls will be for genuine emergencies or will require police assistance.

"However, we will often receive calls, especially via 999, which are not emergencies and a re simply blocking the lines for those in a life or death situation who urgently need our help.

"Have a safe bank holiday weekend and please rest assured, we are always here for you should you find yourself in a real emergency."

Dial 999 if a crime is in progress or the caller believes it is, if someone is injured or there is a threat to life, a serious road traffic collision has happened, or if violence is being used or threatened.

Call 101 to report a crime that does not require an immediate response, if someone is not in immediate danger, if the caller wishes to speak to a local police officer or they want to provide information about a crime.

Call the borough or county council for fly tipping and noise complaints.

Some crimes can be reported online by clicking report on wiltshirepolice.co.uk