WYRE Forest District Council has launched a new direct dial phone number where residents can call to speak to the operators of the council’s “front line” services.

The new number, which was launched on October 1, has already logged more than 70 calls per day and is a direct line to operators.

District councillor Helen Dyke, cabinet member for operational services, said: “We are always looking at ways of being more effective for our residents.

“The new number has been created to go to the heart of operational services so that queries can be answered by the people who are delivering the services.

“This means callers can have their questions answered in one phone call with minimum waiting time.”

The number can be used query waste and recycling, street cleaning, parks and open spaces, civil and environmental enforcement, parking, grounds maintenance and trade waste.

Residents can also call the number to report fly tipping, dog fouling, graffiti, missed bins and car park issues, as well as making card payments for services such as garden waste and bulky collections.

The new operational services direct dial number is 01562 732528, while for all other council related enquiries, call 01562 732928.