Captain Tom Moore Set for Epic RAF Flypast on His 100th Birthday
World War II hero and NHS fundraising legend Captain Tom Moore is in for the ultimate birthday treat. To mark his 100th birthday tomorrow, the RAF will perform a spectacular flypast in his honour.
From 100 Garden Laps to £30 Million
Captain Tom captured the nation’s heart when he decided to walk 100 laps of his garden during lockdown, aiming to raise just £1,000 for NHS charities. Instead, this determined veteran smashed expectations and raised nearly £30 million to support frontline healthcare workers battling COVID-19.
His heartwarming charity effort sparked a global response, with over 130,000 birthday cards flooding in from fans worldwide.
RAF Flypast to Surprise the Nation’s Favourite Centenarian
The aerial salute comes after Transport Secretary Grant Shapps revealed the flypast was “meant to be a surprise for Tom.” Previously, a plan for a flypast by a rare Mark 9 Spitfire named ‘The Spirit of Kent’ was blocked by the Department for Transport.
But all is not lost. The RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF), famous for its six Spitfires, is stepping in to deliver the grand salute. Organisers say the BBMF “is not bound by the same restrictions” and hope the weather plays ball on the big day.
Honours Rolling In for a True British Hero
Captain Tom has already bagged a Pride of Britain Award and there are calls to knight him in recognition of his inspirational efforts during the pandemic.
With the nation behind him, tomorrow’s flypast promises to be a fitting tribute to a man who’s lifted the spirits of millions and put the NHS in the spotlight.
