Flags to fly at half-mast in honour of Captain Sir Tom Moore

Flags on civic buildings in Leeds will be flown at half-mast today in honour of Captain Sir Tom Moore who sadly died yesterday.

The inspirational 100-year-old veteran raised almost £33m for NHS charities during the pandemic by walking laps of his garden. He was knighted by the Queen in July in a special ceremony at Windsor Castle.

In recognition of his incredible efforts and in honour of his memory, flags on Leeds Civic Hall and Leeds Town Hall will fly at half-mast today.

Buildings including Leeds Civic Hall and Leeds Town Hall will also be lit up red, white and blue.

Councillor Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council, said: “Captain Sir Tom Moore’s extraordinary efforts became a shining light for us all during some of the darkest days of the pandemic.

“Not only did this remarkable man raise a quite staggering amount of money to support those on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19, he also brought us joy, inspiration and a reason to smile amid all the worry and uncertainty of the past year.

“Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones today and we hope they will take some comfort in the knowledge that Captain Sir Tom will be mourned and remembered across the nation as a man who above all gave us hope that, in his own words, tomorrow will be a good day.”

Lord Mayor of Leeds Councillor Eileen Taylor added: “Captain Sir Tom Moore was a truly remarkable man in every sense of the word. His efforts over the past year captured the hearts and minds of people across the country and it’s with great sadness and profound respect that we honour him in Leeds today.

“He will be remembered as someone who against all odds, was able to lift the spirits of a nation through his indomitable spirit, determination, and compassion for others.”

ENDS