Police have launched an online crime reporting system.

In an effort to reduce pressure on the control room, people are now able to start live webchats with members of staff and report crimes on Hertfordshire Police’s website.

According to the Police and Crime Commissioner, David Lloyd, this is a “big step forward”.

He said: “This is an additional service that will benefit the public and the police, making it easier to contact our officers whilst prioritising emergency calls.

“The ability to report crimes online and increase the ways the public can contact the police is a central part of my Community Safety and Criminal Justice Plan for Hertfordshire.”

A video showing people how to use the new services is available on Mr Lloyd’s Facebook and Youtube channels.

Chief Constable Charlie Hall said: “We are encouraging people to click before they call, as the information they need may actually be readily available online, and if not then our web chat agents will be on hand to help.

“By expanding our online services we’re reducing the pressure on our control room, which means that they can focus on those truly urgent 999 calls.”

“Please remember that you should always call 999 when it is an emergency, such as when a crime is in progress, someone suspected of a crime is nearby, when there is danger to life or when violence is being used or threatened.”

To report a crime online, visit www.contacthertspolice.uk