World War Two veteran Captain Tom Moore has been appointed to the rank of honorary colonel on his 100th birthday, as it was confirmed he has now raised more than £30m for NHS charities.

Captain Moore had originally set out to raise £1,000 by walking 100 laps of his garden, but donations flooded in after his story captured the nation's heart.

In recognition of his achievements, Chief of the General Staff General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith has appointed him to the rank of honorary colonel of the Army Foundation College, a move approved by the Queen.

Image: Captain Moore has been made an honorary colonel of the Army Foundation College

His birthday has been marked with a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flypast by a Spitfire and a Hurricane above his Bedfordshire home.

The timing of the flypast was not revealed to prevent crowds showing up at Capt Moore's home.


Capt Moore has been inundated with more than 140,000 birthday cards which are on display at his grandson's school.

Among the well-wishers are the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, who have both written to congratulate him on his achievements.

In a video released by Clarence House, Camilla described Capt Moore's fundraising efforts as "wonderful", adding: "That sort of thing makes you proud to be British, doesn't it?"

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Boris Johnson has also sent a birthday message to him, saying: "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.

"There is a tradition going back some years now where the prime minister takes a moment each day to thank someone for their service to others - by recognising them as a point of light.

"Captain Tom, that is exactly what you are - a point of light in all our lives."

The centenarian has also been honoured with a Royal Mail postmark, with all stamped post until Friday marked "Happy 100th Birthday Captain Thomas Moore NHS fundraising hero 30th April 2020".

Image: A school hall was filled with birthday cards for Captain Tom Moore

The centenarian will be spending his special day at home with his daughter Hannah Ingram-Moore and her family, who he has been self-isolating with.

"It is quite extraordinary that I am turning 100," he said.

"It is even more extraordinary that I am doing so with this many well-wishers and I am in awe at the response my walking has had.

"To everyone who has donated, sent birthday cards and messages, sincerely thank you.

"Please stay home, stay safe. Tomorrow will be a good day."