London: Captain Tom Moore, the British World War II veteran who raised millions of pounds for health service workers on the frontline of the battle against COVID-19, has died aged 100, his family said on Tuesday.

Sir Tom was admitted to hospital with coronavirus on Sunday.

Sir Tom Moore after being knighted by the Queen.Credit:AP

“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our dear father, Captain Sir Tom Moore,” his daughters said in a statement.

On Twitter, Sir Tom’s account was updated with a photograph of the war veteran with the words: Captain Sir Tom Moore, 1920-2021, to signify his passing.

The Captain Tom Foundation said staff were “heartbroken.”

“As well as uniting the nation and giving hope when it was needed most he has been our beacon of light every single day,” the foundation said in a statement.

“He was so passionate about the foundation’s vision for a more hopeful world and equal society and was immensely proud of the growing legacy it was establishing in his name.”

“Thank you Captain Sir Tom. Because of you tomorrow will be a good day for so many more.”

Tributes poured in.

The Queen, who knighted Sir Tom last year, is sending a private message of condolence to Sir Tom’s family, Buckingham Palace said.

“Her Majesty very much enjoyed meeting Cpt Sir Tom and his family at Windsor last year,” a spokesperson said.

Britain’s Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he was sorry to hear of Captain Tom’s death.

“He was a great British hero that showed the best of our country and I send my best wishes to his family at this time,” he said.

Labour leader Keir Starmer said Britain had “lost a hero.”

“This is incredibly sad news. Captain Tom Moore put others first at a time of national crisis and was a beacon of hope for millions,” Starmer said.

More to come

Most Viewed in World

Source: Read Full Article