BOURNEMOUTH residents can now report graffiti, potholes or broken streetlights at any time of the day or night, thanks to a new mobile phone app.

The My Bournemouth app is free to download and is already being used by hundreds of residents every month to report an array of problems, from damaged bus shelters to fly-tipped rubbish.

If residents include a photo, the council receives a full GPS location and can take action quickly.

Cllr Anne Filer, cabinet member for corporate efficiency, said: “The app allows people who see a problem to report it to us quickly and easily, at any time of the day or night.

“It should then be dealt with in a matter of days, if not sooner.

“Most people who have got phones will find this easier than trying to phone the council and get the right department.”

The app, which is available from Google Play, the Apple App Store and BlackBerry world, has been up and running for a short while and is frequently used by council staff to report problems they see while out and about.

Bournemouth council recently agreed an extensive overhaul of its customer service function and plans to encourage residents to report problems or make applications online wherever possible.

Cllr Filer added: “Residents will be able to apply for a taxi licence or a building control licence at a time that suits them, not at a time that suits the town hall.

“However, anyone who still wants to phone or visit the council can do so.”