CALL handlers are experiencing technical difficulties answering 999 calls and have asked for patience from the public.

West Mercia Police confirmed their call handlers are having problems with the phone lines, so priority is being given to emergency calls.

A spokesman said: "We are having some technical issues within our call centre and are prioritising emergency calls, if you need urgent help, we will respond quickly.

"There may be a slight delay in some calls being answered so please report non-emergency issues online.

"We are working to resolve the issue."