'An officer and a gentleman': Midlands tributes to Captain Tom after death at age of 100
Tributes have been paid across the Black Country and Staffordshire after Captain Sir Tom Moore had died in hospital at the age of 100 after contracting coronavirus.
The veteran, who captured the hearts of the nation with his fundraising efforts during the first lockdown, died on Tuesday.
Professor David Loughton CBE, chief executive of the Royal Wolverhampton Trust, which runs New Cross Hospital, said: "Captain Tom was an incredible inspiration to us here at the trust and we would like to pay tribute to his amazing spirit and outlook, and to thank him for his incredible contribution to the NHS.”
West Midlands Mayor Andy Street said: "Deeply saddened to hear that Captain Sir Tom Moore has passed away. His phenomenal effort of raising £33 million for the NHS through walking 100 laps of his garden will live long in the memory.
"He showcased the very best of us, and my thoughts go out to his family. Rest in peace Captain."
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South Staffordshire MP and Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson, said: "My heart goes out to his family and friends.
"An officer and a gentleman who, at the toughest times for our nation, was a shining example to young and old of selfless service."
Chairman of the Conservatives and Cannock Chase MP, Amanda Milling, said: "My thoughts and prayers are with Capt Sir Tom Moore’s family.
"We will never forget how his small steps gave so much hope and inspiration to so many.
"RIP to a true British hero."
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, David Jamieson, said: "Deeply saddening news. Rest in Peace Captain Tom.
"You protected the nation and inspired the nation through the toughest of times. The best of Britons and a true hero."
Wolverhampton South West MP Stuart Anderson said: "Such sad news to hear that Captain Tom Moore has passed away. A man who lived life to the full and inspired a nation in a dark time.
"My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time."
Wolverhampton Council's Twitter account posted: "RIP Captain Sir Tom Moore. Thank you for inspiring a nation during this dreadful year.
"A role model who displayed the very best of British. Condolences to friends and family from the City of Wolverhampton."
Sandwell councillors held a minute’s silence at their meeting on Tuesday in memory of Captain Sir Tom.
Councillor Maria Crompton, deputy council leader, said: "Captain Sir Tom was an inspiration to the whole country at a time when people desperately needed some hope.
“It was a truly amazing feat, at his great age, that he not only helped to raise millions for the NHS but also inspired people of all generations.
“He has left a fantastic legacy and our thoughts are with his family today.”
