Civic leaders in Salisbury have expressed their condolences to the family of Captain Sir Tom Moore and paid tribute to his extraordinary achievements.
The 100-year-old Second World War veteran passed away in hospital after testing positive for Covid-19.
He touched the hearts of millions last year when, during the first lockdown, he raised nearly £33 million for the NHS by walking 100 laps of his garden.
Since news of his passing was announced by his daughters on Tuesday February 2, the nation and the city of Salisbury have been mourning the loss of such an inspiring individual.
The Guildhall's flag has been lowered to half-mast in memory of Captain Sir Tom's life - a tribute from all those at Salisbury City Council.
Leader of the City Council, Cllr Liz Sirman said: “We are all very sad to hear about the death of Caption Sir Tom Moore. At the age of 100, he lifted the spirits of the nation and was a symbol of hope during the pandemic. My thoughts are with his family during this time.”
The Chief Executive of Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust also paid tribute to the fundraiser, who had been awarded a knighthood from the Queen in July 2020.
In a tweet, Stacey Hunter said everyone at Salisbury District Hospital was "in awe" of his achievements. "What a man," she said.
What an incredible legacy and inspiration. What a man .Thank you from us all @SalisburyNHS we are in awe of everything you achieved . Sending our condolences to family and friends at this sad time. https://t.co/vLsXL9SnLl
— Stacey HUNTER 💙 (@maidofyorkshire) February 2, 2021
A 'Clap for Captain Tom' will take place at 6pm tonight (February 3) to honour his life.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged the public to join in to remember Sir Tom and all the health workers whom he recognised.
Tonight at 6pm we will clap to honour the life of Sir @CaptainTomMoore and all those health workers who he recognised with his fundraising.#ClapForCaptainTom pic.twitter.com/cPLpjXmJ6k
— UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) February 3, 2021
The House of Commons fell silent in tribute to Sir Tom ahead of Prime Minister’s Questions, and Mr Johnson told MPs the centenarian had dedicated his life to serving others.
He said: “We all now have the opportunity to show our appreciation for him and all that he stood for and believed in.
“That is why I encourage everyone to join in a national clap for Captain Tom and all those health workers for whom he raised money at 6pm this evening.”
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