Captain Tom Moore awarded knighthood for fundraising efforts

Captain Tom Moore is to be knighted for his fundraising efforts.

The 100-year-old war veteran - who recently raised more than £32 million for NHS charities by completing 100 laps of his garden - is set to receive the prestigious honour after a special nomination from Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

The Prime Minster - who was in intensive care in April, after being diagnosed with coronavirus - said that Captain Tom\'s efforts "inspired the whole country" amid the pandemic.

He added: "On behalf of everyone who has been moved by his incredible story, I want to say a huge thank you. He\'s a true national treasure."

Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer has also praised Captain Tom, saying he\'s "brought inspiration to millions and helped all of us to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our NHS".

He added: "In his actions, Tom embodied the national solidarity which has grown throughout this crisis, and showed us that everyone can play their part in helping build a better future."

In April, the Prime Minister led the tributes to Captain Tom on his 100th birthday.

The veteran celebrated the landmark occasion on April 30 and a host of famous faces wished Tom well.

The Prime Minister said: "Captain Tom, I know I speak for the whole country when I say \'We wish you a very happy 100th birthday\'. Your heroic efforts have lifted the spirits of the entire nation.

"You\'ve created a channel to enable millions to say a heartfelt thank you to the remarkable men and women in our NHS who are doing the most astounding job."

The Duke and Duchess of Cornwall also sent a birthday card to the retired army officer, and Duchess Camilla reached out in a special video message to honour his efforts.

She said: "That wonderful man, Captain Tom, walking around and raising all that money - that sort of thing makes you proud to be British, doesn\'t it."