Tragic development for Covid-19 'hero' Captain Sir Tom Moore

Captain Sir Tom Moore, who raised millions for healthcare workers in the UK during its first wave of coronavirus infections, is in hospital after contracting the virus.

Capt Sir Tom, 100, has been battling pneumonia in recent weeks before testing positive for Covid-19 last week, his daughter Hannah Ingram-Moore confirmed in a statement.

The army veteran rose to global fame after he committed to walking 100 laps of his garden before his 100th birthday.

Detailing his efforts on social media, Capt Sir Tom won the hearts of the nation, unifying those who had been badly affected by the pandemic.

He was knighted by the Queen in July.

His fundraising for the NHS came close to £33 million ($59.3 million).

Ms Ingram-Moore praised the medical care he has received following his diagnosis, while confirming he is not in ICU.

Despite the UK’s vaccine rollout well underway, Capt Sir Tom has yet to receive it due to his pneumonia symptoms.

In December he holidayed in Barbados with his family after British Airways paid for his flight. The move prompted anger from some in the UK who criticised the decision to travel abroad as Britain battled an alarming surge in cases.

Wave of support online

Following the news of his hospitalisation, there has been a wave of support for Capt Sir Tom on social media.

“Sending all the love and strength to Captain Sir Tom Moore,” radio presenter Zoe Ball tweeted.

“We’re very sorry to hear this. We are thinking of you all and hoping Captain Sir Tom makes a full and speedy recovery,” the English national soccer teams said.

In a brief message, Health Secretary Matt Hancock sent his best wishes to his family.

Celebrity health professional Dr Alex George called Capt Sir Tom a “true hero”.

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