Town’s floral tribute to a national hero
ATOWN’S gratitude to NHS hero Captain Sir Tom Moore has been summed up perfectly with a touching floral tribute.
The Second World War army veteran who inspired the nation by raising an astonishing £33m for NHS charities last year – died in hospital last week, aged 100, prompting an outpouring of love and gratitude nationwide.
Forget Me Nots florist, of Bacup, paid their own special tribute with red, white and blue flowers spelling out “amazing, inspirational” Sir Tom’s name at the town’s St James’ Square roundabout.
Florist Alison Lister said the tribute was put together by spray painting Chrysanthemums adorned with photos of his war medals.
She said: “I just thought it was absolutely amazing what he did, and wanted to do something to show our appreciation. He was so humble and dignified.
“You can see everyone slowing down to look at it.”
A photo of the display on the flower shop’s Facebook page has attracted hundreds of likes and been shared many times, including by Rossendale council.
Earlier in the pandemic, florist Alison lifted the spirits of locals with her stunning white NHS floral design mounted at the same spot with the help of her husband Andrew.
Alison said they have worked “endless hours” through the pandemic due to high demand, including from bereaved families.
She said she was “overwhelmed” by the number of comments, and was looking forward to sitting down with a coffee to read all of them.
“We see a lot of bereavement in this shop so it’s nice to feel to you are giving a little back to people who are suffering,” Alison added.
“We have had a lot of families who have suffered. Bacup is a brilliant community and everyone gets behind everybody. They’re amazing people and I couldn’t ask for a better community.”
A council spokesperson said it was “a beautiful tribute”, describing Captain Tom as a “true hero and an idol for many”.