AUSTRALIAN racing star Daniel Ricciardo has given a helping hand to local police in their efforts to tackle the spread of Covid-19 in Oxfordshire in the run up to Christmas.

As the county enters its tenth month of restrictions, along with the festive excitement, Thames Valley Police is encouragng the public to 'keep the momentum going'.

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Renault DP World F1 Team, alongside its star driver Mr Ricciardo, have joined forces with the police to share the important message and strengthen the fight against the virus.

In a message to the public, he said: "We recognise this is a tough time for people, particularly with Christmas coming up, which is normally a time for families and friends to come together and celebrate.

"We are committed to working together to make our communities safer and we thank you for you support during this challenging time.

"Thank you to the majority of people who are complying and doing their bit to help."

Chief Superintendent Rob France, gold commander for the force’s response to the pandemic, commented: "We are fortunate enough to have a global influential business such as Renault DP World F1 Team based in our policing area and excited to have the opportunity to work together to remind the public of the ongoing restrictions at a time where people may feel more disengaged. 

"By partnering with Renault DP World F1 Team we hope to reach and inform a wider audience.

"It is great to have a renowned sportsman like Daniel Ricciardo helping to share the vital messages around coronavirus in a way that really resonates with his millions of fans."