Captain Tom's NHS Fundraising Finishes At £32m On His 100th Birthday

Captain Tom Moore’s fundraising total for the NHS has ended at more than £32 million on his 100th birthday.

The Second World War veteran has captured the hearts of the nation by walking 100 laps of his Bedfordshire garden.

Initially, Capt Tom hoped to raise £1,000 but, after smashing his original target, he decided to continue with his walking. 

The donations page closed on Thursday evening, but the 100-year-old veteran has encouraged people to continue to donate directly to NHS Charities.

"My legs may be tired, but my mind is racing and I’m hoping to be back very soon with other ways in which I can help people, help others," Capt Tom said.

Watch: The Prime Minister wishes Captain Tom a happy 100th birthday.

The veteran's birthday was marked with two flypasts - one by the Battle of Britain Memorial and one by the Army Air Corps the former including a Spitfire and Hurricane.

He was also been appointed the first Honorary Colonel of the Army Foundation College.

Chief of the General Staff General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith made the appointment, which has been approved by the Queen, in order to inspire the next generation of soldiers.

Capt Tom was overwhelmed with birthday messages, including more than 150,000 cards, which have been opened at a special sorting office set up at his grandson's school.

He also received a message from the Prime Minister who praised his "heroic efforts" and described him as a "point of light in all our lives".  

Cover image: PA.