Four-time Olympic skier Chemmy Alcott launches series where well-known faces pay tribute to the work of police officers

Recognition has been given to the amazing work being done by the entire police family during the pandemic by some well-known faces who have stepped forward to pledge their words of support.

Motor sport stars, TV commentators and an Olympic ski star joined forces with one of the UK's best-known police figures to record special individual video tributes to the frontline officers who are working tirelessly to safeguard the NHS.

Launching on Bank Holiday Friday, 8 May, the first video features four-time Olympian and BBC Ski Sunday commentator Chemmy Alcott, who takes the opportunity to thank officers "working unimaginable hours, often working away from their families in order to not bring the infection home." The seven-times Senior British National Champion adds: "They are out there risking their lives to prevent crime, to keep the streets safe."

Chemmy’s video is the first of a series of tributes which will feature on our social channels and website over the next few weeks. Look out for similar heartfelt offerings from the likes of bike legend Steve ‘Stavros’ Parrish, race drivers turned commentators Paul O'Neill and Tom Gaymor - plus some extra special words of support from ex-Met Chief Superintendent turned author John Sutherland.

John Apter, National Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales described the videos as a 'morale booster' for hard-pressed colleagues. Mr Apter said: "This has been a challenging time for policing and my colleagues have been doing their level best in the humbling and collective effort to keep the public safe and protect the NHS.

"Some officers have faced disappointing and unfair criticism. It is important for them to know most of the public support what they do every day, especially in times of crisis. After a 12-hour shift of being sworn at, spat at and coughed on, kind words can go a long way.

"I am grateful for those who show the police their gratitude and I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to share messages of support, which mean so much and help boost morale greatly."

Olympic star Chemmy Alcott, bike legend Steve 'Stavros' Parrish, race drivers turned commentators Paul O'Neill and Tom Gaymor, and ex-Met Chief Superintendent turned author John Sutherland have all contributed video messages to show their appreciation for the sacrifices being made in the battle against COVID-19.