A review into police response times for non-emergency calls has been launched.

Following concerns raised by the public, Peter McCall, Cumbria's crime commissioner, has asked Chief Constable Jerry Graham, of Cumbria Constabulary, to review the police's 101 non-emergency service.

Mr McCall said options being looked at to revamp the service include mobile phone applications and easier online reporting.

He said: “As I have been out and about in the last few months I have received the message loud and clear from people that on occasions they are dissatisfied about the length of time it takes for their calls to be answered by the police when ringing the non-emergency number, 101.

“As a result of the public’s feedback I have spoken to the chief constable and he is committed to improving the 101 service.

"The chief constable is reviewing and setting a work programme to improve the level of service when calling 101.

"I am monitoring this weekly and will continue to monitor the situation carefully through my monthly public accountability conference.

“The way that we all communicate has changed significantly, many people are much more comfortable with technology and in addition to 101 we will be looking at the possible longer term solutions including mobile apps and easy online reporting."

However, Mr McCall urged people to still only call 999 in the event of an emergency.

Chief Inspector Andy Wilkinson, of Cumbria Constabulary, said 51 per cent of non-emergency calls to 101 in August were answered within 30 seconds, compared to 33 per cent in June.

He added: "We are continually monitoring how long people have to wait and this call data performance is reported weekly to senior and chief officers. We are also looking to increase staffing levels within the room.

“We are committed to providing a professional service so it is important we find a balance between answering non-emergency calls quickly and giving quality advice and support."

To raise issues with the 101 service, call the crime commissioner's office on 01768 217734 or email commissioner@cumbria-pcc.gov.uk