Tributes paid to Capt Sir Tom Moore

Reacting to the news of the death of Keighley-born Captain Sir Tom Moore’s, Professor Shirley Congdon, Vice Chancellor at the University of Bradford, said it was a sad day for the nation but added Sir Tom had been an inspiration to millions around the world.

“Captain Sir Tom Moore was an inspiration to the entire nation. He was a shining example during dark times and he has left a legacy his family and the country can be proud of. He was awarded an honorary degree from our University in October for his services to the nation during the Covid-19 pandemic. In accepting this award, he sent a message to our students, telling them to have hope in their hearts and adding that tomorrow would be a better day. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”

Sir Tom Moore’s association with the University of Bradford

The fundraising centenarian was honoured by the University of Bradford last year when he was awarded an honorary doctorate.

The honorary degree was awarded for his service to the community during the Covid-19 pandemic, and in recognition of being an outstanding role model to people in the Bradford District and around the UK.

Commenting on the award at the time, Capt Sir Tom said: “I’m delighted to have been awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of the University of Bradford. Thank you for your kind words referring to me as a great role model for Keighley and for the City of Bradford.”

He went on to offer a message of hope to students: “To all your students who are graduating and right at the beginning of their careers - remember to have hope in your hearts. I understand times have been challenging recently but they have done so well and I am very excited for what lies ahead for them. As I always say ‘Tomorrow will be a good day’ and for them that will certainly be the case, I’m sure.”

Professor Congdon said at the time: “We are honoured to be able to confer this award on Capt Sir Tom, whose actions have been truly inspirational. His selfless work championing education and equality mirror our own core values and we’re proud to be associated with him and the legacy he and his family have now created.”

Background

Born and educated in Keighley, Capt Sir Tom attended Keighley Grammar School before training as a civil engineer and enlisting in the Army during the Second World War. He led a distinguished military career, where he served in India and Myanmar (Burma), and then went on to teach armoured warfare.

 Capt Sir Tom Moore captured the hearts and inspired the nation when he decided to raise money for NHS Charities Together during the Covid-19 pandemic. His initial target was to raise £1,000 by walking 100 laps of his garden before his 100th birthday, however, after gaining the attention of the media and the public, the total has surpassed £30m. This money is now being used in NHS trusts and hospitals providing support for staff and patients during the pandemic. 

In September Capt Sir Tom and his family officially launched The Captain Tom Foundation. The money will be used to combat loneliness, supporting people facing bereavement and to champion education and equality. Charities which will benefit include Mind, The Royal British Legion, Helen and Douglas House and Willen Hospice.