Watch Rotherham sporting hero David Seaman promoting Covid safety message

A video starring the Kimberworth-born and bred former Arsenal and England goalkeeper David Seaman is touring the borough this week, asking people to follow the guidelines to reduce the risk of infection in Rotherham.

The video is being broadcast on the sides of digital display van touring streets and shopping centre car parks to promote new key messages in light of the Very High COVID Alert level that came into force for South Yorkshire.

David Seaman gave up his time to join the campaign after a phone call from his mum and dad, who still live in Rotherham.

“My mum asked me to do it, and you can’t say no to your mum, can you?” said David, who was capped 75 times playing in goal for England.

“I’ve got a lot of great memories in Rotherham. It’s a place I know is really friendly and people all love to go out.

"But trust me, this is going to be a long winter and we all need to get through this together so stick to the rules.”

Photographers capture city’s pivotal moment

David’s mum and dad, Pam and Roger Seaman, said: “We know that it’s important for people to do everything they can to stay safe, so when the Council asked us if David would be involved we were only too pleased to ask him.”

The leader of Rotherham Council, Coun Chris Read, said: “The number one thing we’ve all got to do at the moment is to keep each other safe.

"So who is better placed to remind us than Rotherham’s most famous number one? We are at a critical point in this crisis and we need to encourage everyone to follow the guidance to get us to a point where the latest rules can be eased again.

"We really appreciate having the footballing legend that is David Seaman helping us to get the message out into the community.”

People are being encouraged to follow the key guidelines, which are:

Keep two metres apart Don’t mix with other households Wash your hands regularly If you’ve got coronavirus symptoms, you must get tested Wear face coverings

The truck will be driving through streets across the borough with people being encouraged to take a picture of themselves and share the messages.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.