Stafford council honours hero Captain Sir Tom Moore

Pictured above is the Second World War veteran and NHS fundraiser Captain Sir Tom Moore (Photo by Joe Giddens/PA Wire)

Stafford Borough Council is paying tribute to Captain Sir Tom Moore who died at the age of 100 after testing positive for Covid-19.

The Union Jack flag above the Civic Centre in Stafford, Staffordshire is flying at half-mast, pictured below, in honour of the Second World War veteran and NHS fundraiser.

The NHS fundraising hero was admitted to Bedford Hospital on Sunday, January 31, where he had also been treated for pneumonia.

Sir Tom’s efforts raised more than £32 million for the NHS when he walked 100 laps of his garden before his 100th birthday during the first national lockdown in April.

In acknowledgement of his efforts, he was knighted by the Queen during a unique open-air ceremony at Windsor Castle in summer 2020.

Councillor Patrick Farrington, Leader of Stafford Borough Council , said “As he approached his 100th birthday Captain Tom proved that age had not wearied him by inspiring his fellow countrymen and women to stand together in the face of Covid-19.

“He was the face of defiance and hope during the dark days of this pandemic and his selfless actions raised an enormous amount of money for the wellbeing of those on the frontline tackling this virus.

“Sir Tom’s final year saw him bow out with a flourish – a hit record and receiving a knighthood from his Queen and as we mark his passing we can reflect on his positive words ‘tomorrow will be a good day.”

His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes across social media and we're giving people the chance to pay theirs here too, which we will use to build a lasting memory of Capt Sir Tom reflecting on just how much he touched people across the UK.

We're asking you to enter a few words about and what he meant to you during these unprecedented times, which will then be used to put together a digital memorial in his name.

To leave your message, click here.