Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue service has issued a warning to potential prank callers after two fire engines were dispatched following a bogus call.

Crews from Garston and Wheathampstead were called shortly before 10pm yesterday (Tuesday) to reports of a burning building in Newgate Close, St Albans – a call which turned out to be a prank.

Herts Fire Control tweeted: “Not only is this a criminal offence, it puts lives at risk when valuable resources are committed when they may be required elsewhere.”