But Sir Stuart told BBC Radio Tees that every answerphone message left for him was responded to.

BBC: Claims MP Sir Stuart Bell cannot be contacted probed

Insp Vivienne Brenchley said she hoped the public would help the campaign by using the new answerphone service.

BBC: New tool in drink-drive campaign

If the lines are busy, an answerphone message tells children to keep redialling.

BBC: NI Childline 'in need of funds'

Ross was suspended for 12 weeks without pay in 2008 after he and Brand left obscene messages on actor Andrew Sachs' answerphone which were broadcast on Brand's Radio 2 show.

BBC: Sir Michael Lyons: BBC strong despite gaffes