Local tributes pour in after death of inspirational Captain Sir Tom Moore
Date published: 03 February 2021
The flag outside Oldham Civic Centre is at half-mast. Image courtesy of @OldhamCouncil on Twitter
Oldham tributes have poured in the day after the death of Captain Sir Tom Moore, at the age of 100.
The charity fundraiser was taken to hospital on Sunday, after being treated for pneumonia for some time and testing positive for the virus the week before last.
On Monday, Bedford Hospital said Capt Sir Tom had been joined by members of his family.
Capt Sir Tom's fundraising efforts raised more than £32 million for the NHS last year, walking 100 laps of his garden before his 100th birthday during the first lockdown in April.
The veteran set out to raise £1,000 from his lockdown charity challenge, but his efforts struck a chord with the public, and donations took off.
The Union Jack flag outside the Civic Centre in Oldham is now being flown at half-mast.
A Council Tweet read: “In memory of the inspirational Captain Sir Tom Moore, who sadly passed away at the age of 100 yesterday, we are flying our flag at half-mast to pay tribute to a national hero who gave us all hope.
“He will forever be remembered by us all.
"Our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.”
Many more Oldhamers have taken to social media to offer their tributes during the past 24 hours.
John Eccles wrote: “Incredibly sad news.
“RIP Captain Sir Tom Moore.
“You proved to me that age is just a number and you are never too old to follow your dreams.
“My thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”
A post on The Oldham Academy North Facebook page read: “Captain Sir Tom Moore: The hero that inspired millions and reminded us that no matter who you are, you can make a difference in the world.
“Sir Tom brought light to our lives, when for so many it was a dark place.
“Your legacy will live on in generations to come.
“We send our deepest condolences to Sir Tom’s family.”
The Colliers Arms pub in Chadderton wrote: “So sad......he certainly left his mark on the world ! #rip.”
Oldham West and Royton MP Jim McMahon Tweeted: "Rest in peace Sir Tom.
"Thank you for inspiring a nation in one of our darkest hours."
Debbie Abrahams, the Oldham East and Saddleworth MP, added: "Dear Sir Tom. Thank you for brightening our world during a dark time."
Number 10 Downing Street is also flying the Union flag at half-mast to mark the inspirational veteran's passing, while tens of thousands of members of the public from all over the UK are suggesting a doorstep round of applause to mark the sad news at 6pm tonight.
Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.
