Stop mobile nuisance calls

MOBILE phone users can now send a text message to opt out of nuisance calls. The 'text-to-register' service allows mobile users to add their number to the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) 'do not call' database.

Those wanting to sign up need to text 'TPS' followed by their email address to the shortcode 78070. They will receive a text reply from the TPS confirming their number has been successfully added to its database.

Registrants should notice a gradual reduction in unsolicited sales and marketing voice calls after a few days, although it can take up to 28 days for the service to become fully effective.

It is illegal for organisations to make unsolicited sales and marketing calls to numbers registered with the TPS, unless they have a person's consent to do so.

Only 48 per cent of people familiar with the TPS are aware that mobile numbers can be registered, compared to 88 per cent for landline phone numbers, according to Ofcom.

The regulator said this helped to explain why only 2.9 million mobile numbers (around 3 per cent) were registered on the TPS database, compared with 18.5 million landline numbers (around 85 per cent).

John Mitchison, head of the TPS, said: "Rogue callers operate illegally and against the interests of ordinary people.

"Texting will make it easier for people to register their mobile numbers on the TPS, which is the only official no-call list, and help us stamp out rogue callers once and for all by giving the Information Commissioner more ammunition to prosecute these cases."

Changes ahead for Rodford Way mobile phone mast

Vodaphone and O2 have been in contact to say that the controversial Rodford Way mobile phone mast will be upgraded for the new 4G network.

It’s not yet clear what the changes will be – they say it might be just extra cabinets, or they might have to increase the height of the mast.

We’ll let you know when we know more about their proposals. Maybe you are concerned, or perhaps you are keen to get 4G in the area - either way, please let Cllr Paul Hulbert know your views on 01454 315851, email paul.hulbert@gmail.com.

Mobiles, wi-fi and more at South Glos libraries

South Gloucestershire libraries have become exciting technology hubs. Free wi-fi access is available at Emersons Green, Bradley Stoke, Yate and Staple Hill libraries, it is free for the public to use with their own laptops or mobile phones.

So next time you need to use your laptop or wi-fi enabled mobile whilst you’re out and about, why not drop in to one of these libraries?

In addition to the wi-fi access at these libraries, all libraries in South Gloucestershire provide free access to the internet through library PCs.

And there's more - puzzled by that new mobile phone? Every Friday during January libraries in South Gloucestershire will also be offering residents lessons on how to use their mobile phones. Although the service is principally aimed at older residents, anyone is welcome to come along and get some free advice at how to operate their new (or old) mobile phones.

The staff providing the advice will be the Future Job Fund trainees from South Gloucestershire Council, who are young people working in the council to gain work experience to help them find a job.

Cllr Heather Goddard, executive member for communities, said: “Over Christmas many people may be given a mobile phone or own one that they don’t really know how to use. Mobile phones are very helpful for emergencies or to keep in contact with other people whilst away from your home. It is great that we are able to use the skills of these young people to help residents get the most from their mobiles.”

Basic instructions will be given on answering, making a call, saving useful phone numbers and sending text messages - South Gloucestershire libraries lk 4wd 2 cn u.