A HUDDERSFIELD surgery has launched a new phoneline in an attempt to stop patients hearing the engaged tone.

Waterloo Health Centre has switched its main phone number after feedback from patients that the previous system was not working.

But the new number will cost slightly more to call at 4.24p per minute, rather than the standard BT charge of 4.2p for the first 60 seconds.

However, practice manager Bridgid Collings said that the new switchboard will mean the length of calls will be shorter leading to an overall drop in cost for callers.

She said: "In common with most GPs in the country, our patients told us that they were frustrated by repeatedly hearing the engaged tone when they tried to call us to book an appointment.

"Our new number and telecommunications equipment will allow patients to cancel appointments outside of peak hours relieving pressure on the switchboard at peak times by introducing elements of call automation."

The new number for the surgery is 0844 477 8561.