‘A beacon of light during the horrors of the pandemic’: Derbyshire pays tribute to Captain Sir Tom Moore

The 100-year-old Army veteran, who raised almost £33million for NHS charities by walking laps of his garden last year, died with coronavirus in Bedford Hospital on Tuesday.

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Capt Sir Tom helped to lift the nation’s spirits during the pandemic – and inspired many people across Derbyshire to take on their own fundraising challenges.

A Chesterfield Royal Hospital spokesperson said: “He became symbolic of the grit and determination of the UK amid its battle with Covid-19, and he earned many followers with his cheerful and pragmatic approach to life and its troubles.

“We are all so very sorry to hear of his passing and, alongside sharing our deepest and most sincere condolences with his family, would like to thank them for sharing Capt Sir Tom with us these last few months.

“On behalf of all our staff here and the Chesterfield Royal Charity, we would also like to say thank you to this remarkable man for his support of the NHS and his fundraising – which has enabled us to help our staff and patients bear the brunt of the pandemic with a little more ease.”

Matthew Tacey, a lead nurse based in Chesterfield, added: “Capt Sir Tom provided us all with hope and optimism, and was a beacon of light during a time in our lives that was suffocated by Covid-19.

“He showed kindness, courage and honour, not just during his final years raising £33m for the NHS but also his years of serving as a British Army officer.

“Capt Sir Tom was a national treasure and a true hero.

“My thoughts go out to his friends and family, and may he rest in peace.”

Flags have been flying at half-mast at Chesterfield Town Hall and County Hall in Matlock on Wednesday as a mark of respect.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Capt Sir Tom.

“He was an inspirational figure and helped give hope to millions in this incredibly difficult year.

“My thoughts are with his family – as they are with the thousands of other families who have also lost their loved ones in the last year.

“We must remember all of those who have suffered during this tragic year.”

Coun Barry Lewis, leader of Derbyshire County Council, added: “Capt Sir Tom was an amazing and remarkable man who became the bright light of the first lockdown.”

Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins recognised the contribution Capt Sir Tom made.

“If ever there was proof that you are never too old to make a difference, Capt Sir Tom provided it.

“What a man.”

Coun Mick Bagshaw, who sits on Staveley Town Council and the borough council, described Capt Sir Tom as a ‘hero and an inspiration’.

He added: “He was just the tonic for lifting our spirits during this pandemic.

“He touched us all – and he is now shining down on us, making our tomorrows brighter.”

Capt Sir Tom famously said last year: “We’ll get through it in the end.

“It might take time – but at the end of the day we shall all be OK again.

“The sun will shine on you again and the clouds will go away.”

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