Staveley Town Council lay wreath in honour of Captain Sir Tom Moore

The town marked the day of veteran and NHS charity fundraiser Sir Tom’s funeral, which took place in his hometown of Bedfordshire this afternoon (February 27).

Due to Covid restrictions, the funeral was attended only by members of the 100-year-old’s immediate family but mourners up and down the country have paid their respects in their own way.

In Staveley Memorial Gardens a wreath was laid on behalf of the community by chair of Staveley Town Council, Coun Donald Parsons and town clerk Mark Evans.

Resident Alison Stowe came up with the ‘wonderful’ idea and bouquet of flowers was also provided by Natasha Morehen at Floral Blossoms.

In Keighley, where Sir Tom grew up, the town’s mayor Peter Corkindale also laid a wreath in Sir Tom’s memory.

Flypast for Captain Sir Tom Moore as 'spectacular' funeral set to go ahead today

And in Bradford, 100 bells rung from the city’s cathedral at 12pm, and the bells of the clock tower played You’ll Never Walk Alone, which Sir Tom covered with singer Michael Ball to achieve a number one hit.

Sir Tom, who served with the Duke of Wellington's Regiment during the Second World War, inspired millions by raising more than £32 million for the NHS with a sponsored walk of his garden during the first lockdown.

Staveley resident Barbara Webster said: “Well done to all concerned who put things together to pay tribute to one of our lives reall heroes Sir Tom.

“God bless him and may he rest in peace, and never forgotten for what he did in these terrible times.”

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 subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.