Sir Tom Moore was a wonderfully optimistic 100-year-old Yorkshireman who s determination lifted the mood of the nation.
I have defended his right to take one last holiday in Barbados with his lovely family and have toasted his extraordinary fundraising efforts.
I understand why people would wish to publicly applaud him on their doorsteps - not least the amazing NHS staff for whom he raised a staggering £33million completing his own garden marathon.
But whilst we exist in this current climate of fear and judgement, it has become socially unacceptable to challenge the overt public narrative of what is right or wrong.
Clap for Captain Tom at 6pm tonight: Boris Johnson will lead national round of applause straight after the 5pm press conference as he backs campaign for a statue to honour the fundraising legend
PM said he had dedicated his life to serving others, and encouraged everyone to take part in the clap We have the opportunity to show our appreciation for him and all that he stood for, Mr Johnson said
The war veteran was admitted to hospital on Sunday night with coronavirus after battling pneumonia
Came as Captain Tom s family said he d regularly tested negative for Covid-19 until he visited hospital
Britain salutes Captain Tom: Fundraising hero s family lead national tribute to the 100-year-old who lost his own battle with Covid yesterday, as Boris backs campaign for statue in his honour
The nation took to their doorsteps at 6pm this evening to clap and pay tribute to Sir Captain Tom Moore, 100
It comes after fundraising hero and WWII veteran died yesterday following hospital treatment for Covid-19
Boris Johnson led the applause for the veteran after calling for it in the House of Commons earlier today
PM said Captain Tom had dedicated his life to serving others, and encouraged everyone to take part in clap
Advertisement
A permanent memorial to inspirational Captain Sir Tom Moore should be built to recognise his contribution to the NHS, the government said this morning.
Secretary of State for Health Matt Hancock confirmed the 100-year-old had cemented his place in history after his heroic fundraising efforts.
He said his courageous rallying of the country during the coronavirus pandemic had symbolised resilience in the face of adversity.
His comments on a memorial came amid calls for Captain Sir Tom to be honoured on the Fourth plinth in Trafalgar Square or to receive a stone in Westminster Abbey.
Meanwhile, Boris Johnson has also announced a national round of applause at 6pm this evening.