Captain Sir Tom Moore: Celebrities add their tributes
- Published
The Queen paid tribute to the World War II veteran, saying the Royal Family's thoughts are with his loved ones and she is sending a private message of condolence. She knighted Captain Tom at Windsor Castle in July 2020, after he raised over £32 million for NHS charities.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke to Captain Tom's daughter Hannah, (pictured here with her father) to offer his condolences. In a video statement, he also said Sir Tom "became not just a national inspiration but a beacon of hope for the world." The flag above 10 Downing Street flew at half-mast as a mark of respect.
The famous Piccadilly screens showed a tribute to Captain Tom on Tuesday evening. Meanwhile, entertainers Ant and Dec said he was "a shining beacon of hope and an inspiration to us all when we needed it most. We thank you and salute you".
Strictly champion Oti Mabuse said Captain Tom "was such an inspiration of doing things from the bottom of your heart because you truly care".
The new US President Joe Biden's team also joined in the tributes "honouring the memory of Captain Sir Tom Moore who inspired millions through his life and actions."
Several buildings around the UK, such as Blackpool Tower and the the Liver building in Liverpool, were lit up in blue in recognition of the money Sir Tom raised for the NHS and others charities.
Fitness coach Joe Wicks described Captain Sir Tom as "an inspiration who helped millions of people feel hopeful and optimistic during a difficult time" and racing driver Lewis Hamilton reflected Captain Sir Tom's love of Formula 1, saying Tom was a true hero and that he was: "honoured to have had the opportunity to be able to tell how in awe of him I was."
There were lots of football matches on the evening of Captain Sir Tom's passing and many of them reflected his memory. Here Coventry City and Nottingham Forest players observed a minute of silence before they kicked off their match.
Legendary England football captain David Beckham, who met Captain Sir Tom after he completed his lap challenge, said we had "lost a true hero" and said "what he achieved for our NHS will never be forgotten".
Britain's Got Talent judge Amanda Holden called him a "national hero who brought us all together and shone so much light in such a dark time". She also sent her wishes to "his wonderful family". He was accompanied by his grandson Benji, daughter Hannah and granddaughter Georgia when he was knighted by the Queen.
Former Olympic champion Jessica Ennis-Hill, who gave Captain Sir Tom an award at Sports Personality of the Year 2020, said he brought people together "in a way we couldn’t have imagined, through such a difficult time." Captain Tom's walk inspired nine-year-old Tobias to take on his own challenge. Tobias, who relies on the help of his walking frame to get around, raised over a staggering £150,000 for charity by walking a full 26.2 mile marathon during lockdown.
- Published3 February 2021
- Published5 February 2021
