THERE are calls for the team behind the Oxford University coronavirus vaccine to be awarded the Freedom of the City.

The jab, developed in partnership with AstraZeneca, was approved by UK regulators on Wednesday.

The granting of the Freedom of the City of Oxford is awarded to persons or organisations of distinction who have, in the opinion of Oxford City Council, 'rendered eminent services to the city'.

Oxford's Green party has made the call, with former Lord Mayor and councillor Craig Simmons saying scientists and the company had done an 'incredible job'.

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He added: "They have not only developed a vaccine in record time but produced one which is cheaper, easier to distribute and are making it available globally on a not-for-profit basis.

"In doing so, they have embodied our values as an innovative and caring city and taken that message out to the world.

"We should be honouring them with the highest accolade our city can confer; Freedom of the City of Oxford."

Mr Simmons continued: "Of course, they are not the only team within Oxford that has delivered during the pandemic and continues to do so. Frontline workers from the council, NHS, those in charities that have worked so hard during the pandemic and the many volunteers who have freely and generously given their times also deserve our sincerest thanks.

"I hope that, as a council, we can - at the appropriate time - find a way to also honour and thank all those who will have played their part."