Here is the missing information requested by the user guide.

the non-geographical number I am looking for an alternative for:
08451206440

a full address including post code:
Ostrich Media Limited of Avalon House, 57-63 Scrutton Street, London, EC2A 4PF

website address:
http://www.quizcall.co.uk

type of business:
TV competition operator

whether the company has changed its name or been bought out:
Not that I am aware of

in the case of a shop, for example, whether it has changed occupants and who used to be there:
N/A

any other useful information you can think of:
None

You offer what is described as a "free" entry route for the Quiz Call competition which is via an 0845 number.

The 0845 is provided as a so-called "free" entry route instead of the premium rate 0901 number. However, as you all know, 0845 numbers are not included in telephone companies inclusive minutes or free calls. Therefore, if they genuinely intend there to be a free entry route, why don't they provide this via a geographical number?

I once posted a request for a geographical alternative to the Daily Mail crossword solutions line (not a prize crossword). I was "told off" for posting the request and told that competitions didn't warrant space in the forum.

Fair enough, but I take the view that if you don't ask you don't get; there might be an alternative, somebody might know it and it might lots of people some money. I think this is especially true when the company give an 0845 number and describe it as "free".

I have emailed quizcall customer services (customerservices@quizcall.co.uk) requesting their geographical number for their free web entry 0845 line.

So far I have not had a reply from them and thats been three days now.

Does no one have an alternative number for Quizcalls web entry line? It would be much appreciated.

Might be worth making a complaint to the ASA  as the free web entry advertised is not free.

I emailed Quiz Call and got a reply. I've copied the emails below.

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Me to Quiz Call
16 March

Dear Ms Third,

You offer what is described as a "free" entry route for the Quiz Call competition which is via an 0845 number.

As you will know, 0845 numbers are not included in telephone companies inclusive minutes or free calls. Therefore, if you genuinely intend there to be a free entry route, why don't you provide this via a geographical number?

Kind regards,

Laurence Koster


Quiz Call to me
19 March 

Dear Mr Koster,

Thank you for your email.

Quiz Call’s new Free Web Entry is completely free of charge in terms that we give all persons wishing to play a Free Pin Code that allows them to participate in the game. Ostrich Media makes no profit from any persons being charged by their network provider to dial the 0845 number. This acts in the same way as people entering via a postal system whereby you would purchase a stamp and a postcard to enter, however the actual competition is Free.

This form of entry is upheld by the Gambling Commission, Ofcom as well as Phoneplayplus (formerly ICSTIS) and complies with their regulations.

Ostrich Media, the makers of Quiz Call have been independently audited three times.

The companies that have visited us and thoroughly investigated our business operations are among the world's Big Four auditors.

On all 3 occasions, we were found to be compliant and fair in all areas of our business.

At Ostrich Media, we view these external audits as necessary and important to ensure that we maintain the highest standards, and continue to lead the industry in matters of compliance and fairness

Should you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Yours Sincerely,

Susie Yalim

Head of Customer Service


Me to Quiz Call
19 March 

Dear Ms Yalim,

Thanks for your email. You don't, however, really answer my question. Why do you use an 0845 number (with which you receive no profit) and not a normal geographical number (for which you would also receive no profit)?

Kind regards,
Laurence Koster