UK Fundraiser And War Hero Captain Sir Tom Moore Has Died, Aged 100

The British war hero who raised millions of dollars for the UK's health service, Captain Sir Tom Moore, has died.

The 100-year-old, from Keighley, Bradford, was admitted to hospital after contracting coronavirus and was also being treated for pneumonia.

In a statement, Sir Tom's daughters Hannah Ingram-Moore and Lucy Teixeira said: "Whilst he'd been in so many hearts for just a short time, he was an incredible father and grandfather, and he will stay alive in our hearts forever."

Sir Tom became an international celebrity last year when he decided to do 100 laps of his garden to raise money for the NHS during the first lockdown of the coronavirus pandemic.

He went on to raise an astonishing AUD$59 million.

At the time, NHS Charities Together Chief Executive, Ellie Orton, said: "If it wasn't for him and the remarkable fundraising he has done, we wouldn't be able to [provide] the extra support that we give to the NHS.

"It's been phenomenal, the funds that he has raised are making a significant difference in the NHS right now and these funds are additional to what the NHS and the government are able to give."

Sir Tom was a source of inspiration for the country during one of the darkest periods in recent memory, and in July 2020, he was awarded with a knighthood by Queen Elizabeth II.

PA

Speaking at the time, he said: "I am absolutely overawed.

"This is such a high award and to get it from Her Majesty as well - what more can anyone wish for? This has been an absolutely magnificent day for me."

Since news of Sir Tom's death was announced, people have shared their condolences with his family.

One user said: "What a wonderful man and he will be forever in our hearts. My daughters are young, but when I tell them of this time I will let them know of the man that raised so much for the NHS and gave us all hope that tomorrow will be a better day. May he rest in peace. Love to his family."

Echoing these sentiments, another shared: "An absolute inspiration. Rest in peace."

"Captain Tom was amazing and gave us all hope in dark times. RIP Captain Tom. Sending my love and condolences to all his family," wrote a third.

Places around the UK, like the London Eye and Blackpool Tower, have been lit up to honour Captain Tom.

Stewart Perrie

Stewart Perrie is a Trending Journalist at LADbible. His first job was as a newsreader and journalist at the award winning Sydney radio station, Macquarie Radio. He was solely responsible for the content broadcast on multiple stations across Australia when the MH17, Germanwings and AirAsia disasters unfolded. Stewart has covered the conflict in Syria for LADbible, interviewing a doctor on the front line, and has contributed to the hugely successful UOKM8 campaign.

@stewartperrie