Capt Tom would be so proud of memorial, say his family
AS one of the most loved charity fundraisers this country has ever seen, it’s the sort of challenge that would have seen him doing laps in his garden all over again.
The family of Captain Sir Tom Moore yesterday gave their endorsement to the campaign for a national memorial to coronavirus victims – and said the indomitable fundraiser would have backed it enthusiastically too.
They also revealed they had taken ‘great comfort’ from the public’s support after his death from coronavirus.
The family added that providing a focal point at St Paul’s Cathedral for thousands to remember loved ones who had died during the pandemic would provide similar solace. ‘In what has been a challenging time for the whole nation, my family has been blessed with support far and wide, which has given us great comfort,’ said Sir Tom’s daughter Hannah IngramMoore, on behalf of her husband Colin and children Benjie and Georgia.
She added: ‘I welcome this campaign as I have no doubt it will result in uniting many who have suffered similar loss and offer not only comfort but also secure a fitting way to ensure our loved ones are remembered for many years to come.
‘My father would have been so proud to know a fitting tribute was being made to bring the nation together at this unprecedented time of loss.’ Captain Sir Tom raised nearly £33million for the NHS – £39million including Gift Aid – after making circuits of the garden at the home he shared with Mrs IngramMoore, 50, and her family in Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire.
After his inspirational feat in the runup to his 100th birthday, carried out over several weeks with the aid of a walker, the Second World War veteran was knighted by the Queen and made an honorary colonel.
He caught Covid-19 in hospital while fighting pneumonia and died on February 2. He would have celebrated his 101st birthday last Friday, April 30.
Mrs Ingram-Moore has also made her own generous donation to the memorial. Boris Johnson has hinted her father would have a hospital named after him as well as a possible permanent monument. Mrs Ingram-Moore’s gift was accompanied with an emotional message which read: ‘In memory of my father Captain Sir Tom.
‘This is a most poignant and respectful tribute to all those we have lost during the pandemic. I am very much looking forward to visiting this beautiful place, allowing us to remember those we have loved and lost. Hannah x.’
Others who have backed the campaign to commemorate the 127,500 lives lost so far, as well as indirect virus victims, include the Prime Minister, Prince Charles and faith leaders.
OF all the symbols of Britain’s resilience against coronavirus, Captain Sir Tom Moore is the most striking. The 100-year-old war hero inspired the nation, raising mindboggling sums for the NHS, before tragically succumbing to the disease.
Who better, then, than the indomitable veteran’s family to support the Mail’s campaign for an enduring memorial at St Paul’s Cathedral to all those who lost their lives?
With a generous contribution from philanthropist Sir Michael Hintze, we are thundering towards the £2.3million target.
Every day, this poignant shrine moves a step closer to becoming reality.