COVID-19: Captain Sir Tom Moore in hospital with coronavirus
Written by News on 31/01/2021
Captain Sir Tom Moore, the Second World War veteran who was knighted after raising millions of pounds for the NHS during the UK’s first lockdown, has been admitted to hospital with coronavirus.
In a tweet from his official account, his daughter, Hannah Ingram-Moore, said he tested positive last week and was taken to hospital today for help with his breathing.
He is not in intensive care.
She said in a statement that her 100-year-old father had been receiving treatment for pneumonia over the last few weeks before his positive COVID test result.
“He was at home with us until today, when he needed additional help with breathing,” she said.
A spokesperson for Captain Sir Tom told Sky News he had not yet been vaccinated because he was being treated for pneumonia.
His daughter added: “The medical care he has received in the last few weeks has been remarkable and we know that the wonderful staff at Bedford Hospital will do all they can to make him comfortable and hopefully return home as soon as possible.
“We understand that everyone will be wishing him well. We are of course focusing on my father and will update you when we are able to.”
The news prompted an outpouring of support from well-wishers.
Labour leader Keir Starmer said in a Twitter post: “The whole nation hopes you get well soon @captaintommoore. You’ve been an inspiration to us all throughout this crisis.”
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “Thank you to our brilliant NHS for taking care of @CaptainTomMoore. Hoping for a speedy recovery and to see Captain Tom back home with his family soon.”
Health Secretary Matt Hancock also responded to the statement, saying: “Sending my best wishes, Hannah.”
In November, the beloved centenarian had called on the country to stand “shoulder to shoulder” as England entered a second lockdown.
Sir Captain Tom, who raised more than £32m for the NHS by walking 100 laps of his garden before his 100th birthday, said the nation should pull together to get through the next month.
He said: “I would like us all to stand shoulder to shoulder – metaphorically!
“Let’s try not to get downhearted, we will get through this, whatever is thrown at us and together we can ensure that tomorrow will be a good day.”
(c) Sky News 2021: COVID-19: Captain Sir Tom Moore in hospital with coronavirus
